paradox

Pronunciation: PAR-uh-doks

noun

Difficulty: common

Definition of paradox

A seemingly contradictory or absurd statement that, upon closer examination, may reveal an underlying truth or deeper meaning.

Origin of paradox

Language of origin: Greek

Root word: paradoxos

Original meaning: beyond belief, contrary to expectation

How it evolved: Initially used to describe ideas or statements that defied common sense or conventional wisdom but held deeper truths.

The word 'paradox' originates from Ancient Greek, where it described something contrary to expectation, often provoking thought or debate.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember paradox

Imagine a pair of ducks (sounds like 'paradox') swimming in opposite directions—seemingly contradictory, but they still coexist harmoniously in the same pond.

Synonyms for paradox

Antonyms of paradox

  • certainty
  • consistency
  • clarity
  • truth
  • solution

paradox in a Sentence

  1. The paradox of progress is that technological advancements often complicate our lives instead of simplifying them.
  2. It is a paradox that the more we learn, the more we realize how much we don't know.
  3. Her statement, 'less is more,' encapsulates a classic paradox that challenges conventional logic.

paradox in Literature & Culture

Paradox is widely used in literature, such as George Orwell's '1984,' where 'War is peace, freedom is slavery, ignorance is strength' encapsulates political paradoxes. It also plays a key role in philosophical debates and rhetorical devices in speeches.

Usage Notes

Paradox often carries a thought-provoking or puzzling connotation, making it suitable for philosophical or literary contexts. Avoid confusing it with mere contradictions that lack deeper meaning.

Why paradox Matters for GRE & SAT

Paradox is a high-frequency GRE word due to its relevance in analytical writing and reading comprehension, where understanding complex ideas is crucial.

Word Family

paradoxical (adjective)
Seemingly contradictory but may hold an underlying truth.
paradoxically (adverb)
In a manner that appears contradictory but may reveal deeper logic.
paradoxology (noun)
The study or use of paradoxes.

Did You Know?

  • Oscar Wilde famously said, 'The truth is rarely pure and never simple,' a paradox that captures the complexity of human understanding.
  • Paradoxes are used extensively in Zen Buddhism to challenge logical reasoning and provoke enlightenment.
  • The 'liar paradox,' such as the statement 'This sentence is false,' has puzzled philosophers for centuries.

More Vocabulary Words Starting with P

  • pacify — bring peace to or calm someone down
  • pacify — bring peace to or calm someone down
  • painstaking — Done with or employing great care and thoroughness
  • painstaking — done with careful attention to detail
  • painstaking — done with careful attention to detail
  • palpable — tangible, perceptible, or clearly noticeable
  • palpable — So intense as to seem almost tangible
  • palpable — tangible, perceptible, or clearly noticeable
  • paltry — of little monetary worth; trivial
  • paltry — of little monetary worth; trivial