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paradox
/ˈpaɹədɒks/
A paradox is a mental knot. It describes the friction between two opposing truths that coexist, creating a sense of cognitive dissonance or logical impossibility. In a logical context, it feels like a riddle or a trap—something that seems impossible on the surface but reveals a deeper truth upon closer inspection. It differs from a 'contradiction' in that a contradiction is simply false, whereas a paradox often contains a hidden validity. When applied to people or situations, it describes an unexpected duality. It conveys a sense of complexity and mystery, suggesting that a person is not one-dimensional but composed of contrasting layers (e.g., a 'gentle giant').
💬Conversación Casual
I'm trying to lean into the paradox of using more tech to save time.
Just stop messing with the settings and restart it, Dave.
Meanings
A seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained may prove to be well founded.
"The paradox of choice suggests that having too many options can actually make it harder to make a decision."