paradoxical
UK: /ˌpærəˈdɒksɪkəl/ | US: /ˌpærəˈdɑːksɪkəl/
adj. seemingly contradictory or opposed to common sense, yet perhaps true
adj. involving or filled with paradox
paradoxical = para<contrary> + dox<opinion> + ical<adjective suffix>
- para (Greek: "contrary to" or "beyond")
- dox (Greek: "opinion," from doxa)
- ical (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives, meaning "pertaining to")
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Greek paradoxos ("contrary to expectation"), combining para- ("beyond") and doxa ("opinion"). It entered English via Latin paradoxum, retaining its core sense of a statement that defies intuition. The suffix -ical was later added to form the adjective, emphasizing a quality of contradiction. The evolution reflects how language formalizes abstract concepts—here, the tension between logic and apparent absurdity.
The politician’s paradoxical statement left the audience confused.
Quantum physics often produces paradoxical results that challenge classical theories.
Her kindness to strangers seemed paradoxical given her cold demeanor at work.
The artist’s work is deliberately paradoxical, blending chaos and harmony.
It’s paradoxical how solitude can make one feel both lonely and free.