contradict
UK: /ˌkɒn.trəˈdɪkt/ | US: /ˌkɑːn.trəˈdɪkt/
vt. to assert the opposite of a statement made by someone
vt. to deny or oppose in words or actions
vi. to be logically incompatible with another fact or claim
contradict = contra<against> + dict<speak>
- contra (Latin: "against") → Prefix indicating opposition or contrast.
- dict (Latin: "dico, dicere" meaning "to speak") → Root related to speech or declaration.
Etymology Origin:
The word "contradict" originates from Latin contradicere, combining contra ("against") and dicere ("to speak"). It entered English via Old French contredire. The core idea is "speaking against" a statement, reflecting its modern meanings of denial or logical opposition. The morphemes retain their original spelling and semantic roles, making the word transparent for learners.
The witness chose to contradict the defendant’s testimony.
His actions contradict his earlier promises.
The data seems to contradict the proposed theory.
She rarely contradicts her boss in meetings.
Their stories contradict each other on key details.