paradoxically

American  

[par-uh-dok-sik-lee] / ˌpær əˈdɒk sɪk li /

adverb

1. in a self-contradictory or seemingly self-contradictory way.

   Paradoxically, the more we know, the more we identify an increasing number of questions to which we as yet have no answers.

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Other Word Forms

• nonparadoxically adverb
• ultraparadoxically adverb
• unparadoxically adverb

Etymology

Origin of paradoxically

paradoxical ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

To boost the number of registered players and try to win over the International Olympic Committee, the sport has, paradoxically, had to step away from snow.

From Barron's • Feb. 22, 2026

He says that companies that could debut this year paradoxically have both high market capitalizations and the potential to be mega-growers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 22, 2026

A keystone’s angled downward pressure on each side locks the larger form in place, paradoxically allowing the arch to rise up.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 25, 2025

Dutiful Meg paradoxically longs for leisure and fashionable clothes; impetuous Jo yearns for literary fame; shy, music-loving Beth wishes only for everyone to be happy; artistic Amy craves admiration and status.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 14, 2025

“I understand, Principal,” Granny said, “but I don’t understand,” she added paradoxically.

From "Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography" by Mark Mathabane