contradictory

adjective

ˌkän-trə-ˈdik-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce contradictory (audio)
Definition of contradictorynext
as in contrary
being as different as possible contradictory predictions regarding stock prices that were of no help to investors at all

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the adjective contradictory differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of contradictory are antithetical, contrary, and opposite. While all these words mean "being so far apart as to be or seem irreconcilable," contradictory applies to two things that completely negate each other so that if one is true or valid the other must be untrue or invalid.

made contradictory predictions about whether the market would rise or fall

When can antithetical be used instead of contradictory?

The synonyms antithetical and contradictory are sometimes interchangeable, but antithetical stresses clear and unequivocal diametrical opposition.

a law that is antithetical to the very idea of democracy

When is it sensible to use contrary instead of contradictory?

While the synonyms contrary and contradictory are close in meaning, contrary implies extreme divergence or diametrical opposition.

contrary assessments of the war situation

Where would opposite be a reasonable alternative to contradictory?

The meanings of opposite and contradictory largely overlap; however, opposite applies to things in sharp contrast or in conflict.

opposite views on foreign aid

Examples 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 contradictory Northwestern University’s new $850 million stadium project has two notable and almost contradictory superlatives. —Eben Novy-Williams, Sportico.com, 18 Nov. 2024 The duo will discuss celebrity news, viral moments, memes, fashion, and sports, giving authentic and often contradictory perspectives on the latest hot topics. —Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 28 Oct. 2024 Charismatic Leadership And Body Language The most magnetic business leaders have mastered the art of balancing two seemingly contradictory forces: receptivity and formidability. —Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024 The group previously ran seemingly contradictory ads aimed at voters in different swing states. —Gaby Del Valle, The Verge, 29 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for contradictory 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contradictory
  1. contrary
  2. opposite
  3. unfavorable
  4. antithetical
Adjective
  • There is no line value based solely on the model but the Giants apply to a very good 236-117-10 ATS contrary indicator and this is the type of game that the Steelers traditionally haven’t been at their best under coach Mike Tomlin.
    Jay Ginsbach, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024
  • Once perceptions are framed and anchored, confirmation bias—the tendency for people to pay attention only to evidence that agrees with their perceptions and to ignore contrary information—tends to set in.
    Ryan Hogg, Fortune, 15 Oct. 2024
Definition of contrary
Adjective
  • However, despite these expectations and much to potential homebuyers' chagrin, mortgage rates are moving in the opposite direction.
    Becca Stanek, theweek, 20 Nov. 2024
  • In early 2017, the nascent Trump administration quickly moved in the opposite direction, abandoning that interpretation of the law.
    Jonaki Mehta, NPR, 19 Nov. 2024
Definition of opposite
Adjective
  • When faced with unfavorable reviews or feedback, there is always an opportunity to learn something and make your product or service even better.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
  • In terms of favorability, 36 percent of respondents have a favorable view of Ayotte, 15 percent have a neutral view and 45 percent have an unfavorable view of the GOP candidate.
    Joanne Haner, The Hill, 4 Nov. 2024
Definition of unfavorable
Adjective
  • Rather than condemn such transfers, Iraqi officials and politicians should recognize that a well-armed Peshmerga isn’t antithetical to the national interest.
    Paul Iddon, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024
  • Sure, Collins has leaned in and out of Emily’s comfort zone for press events; however, all three looks on September 16 feel decidedly antithetical to her character’s sartorial convictions.
    Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 16 Sep. 2024
Definition of antithetical

Thesaurus Entries Near contradictory

contradictoriness

contradictory

contradicts

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Contradictory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contradictory. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.

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