contradictory

UK: ˌkɒntrəˈdɪktəri | US: ˌkɑːntrəˈdɪktəri

Definition

  1. adj. involving or containing direct opposition; inconsistent

  2. adj. inclined to contradict or deny

Structure
contra <against>dict <speak>ory <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "contradictory" originates from Latin roots:

  • "contra" (against) + "dicere" (to speak), forming "contradicere" (to speak against).
  • The suffix "-ory" (adjective-forming) was added in Late Latin ("contradictorius"), later adopted into Middle English.
    The morphemes reflect a logical progression: opposing ("contra") speech ("dict") resulting in a descriptive adjective ("-ory").
Examples

  1. His statements were contradictory, leaving the audience confused.

  2. The witness gave contradictory accounts of the event.

  3. The study presented contradictory evidence to the earlier theory.

  4. Her actions were contradictory to her words.

  5. The politician’s speeches often sound deliberately contradictory.