paradox

noun

ˈper-ə-ˌdäks How to pronounce paradox (audio)
Definition of paradoxnext
as in dichotomy
someone or something with qualities or features that seem to conflict with one another the paradox of fighting a war for peace

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of paradox The race split in two Here is the paradox that should be on every board agenda this fall. — Mark Minevich, Fortune, 21 Aug. 2026 Across the continent, this same paradox – where certain types of migration are needed but not wanted – and the debate around it continues to play out, increasingly louder. — Vasco Cotovio, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026 Founders Gary Acosta and Pedro Guerrero highlighted the paradox of Latinos being economic drivers and cultural influencers despite underrepresentation and vilification. — Isaac Mizrahi, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026 This is a paradox that exists at the intersection of mental health, identity, and achievement. — Rachel Docekal, STAT, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for paradox
Recent Examples of Synonyms for paradox
  1. dichotomy
  2. mystery
  3. contradiction
  4. enigma
  5. incongruity
Noun
  • The mitigation-versus-adaptation split characterizes a lot of climate action, but few people outside of those actively working on climate change think of this dichotomy.
    — Jamil Wyne, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026
  • Farnaby’s work on projects like Paddington 2, Wonka and Ghosts well captures these kinds of dichotomies.
    — Abbey White, HollywoodReporter, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of dichotomy
Noun
  • The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is about to launch on an incredible adventure to help scientists explore the great mysteries of the universe.
    — Chelsea Gohd, Space.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Why the Central African Republic agreed to accept migrants from the US is still something of a mystery.
    — Mick Krever, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of mystery
Noun
  • Its uniquely wide view will also help scientists decode the intricacies of dark matter and dark energy while perhaps clearing up some contradictions about our universe that scientists have been scratching their heads over for decades.
    — Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Not as an idealised image of femininity, but as individuals carrying contradictions, expectations and desires.
    — PhotoVogue, Vogue, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of contradiction
Noun
  • Its findings could also unlock clues about dark energy and dark matter, and some of the universe’s biggest enigmas.
    — Denise Chow, NBC news, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Rafa is a kind of enigma, an international sports figure who’s massively well liked and well known across the globe, but who has maintained an inner private life that is very authentically Spanish.
    — John Hopewell, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of enigma
Noun
  • To them, cartoons are just a part of life, and that incongruity generates much of the film’s humor.
    — Angelica Jade Bastién, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026
  • The passing of 30 years has only enhanced the appeal of the group’s Nashville detour, shifting attention from the incongruity of Ween cutting a country record to the joyous chemistry between these old pros and young punks.
    — Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Pitchfork, 1 Aug. 2026
Definition of incongruity

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paradox
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Cite this Entry

“Paradox.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/paradox. Accessed 31 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on paradox

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about paradox

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