Translation guide
The English word "contradiction" covers logical inconsistency, verbal opposition, and self-contradictory behavior. In Japanese, different words and patterns are used depending on whether you mean a logical contradiction, a contradictory statement, or a situation where two things conflict.
A statement, idea, or situation that is logically inconsistent or impossible.
The most common and direct translation for logical contradiction. Used for inconsistencies in arguments, systems, or situations.
彼の説明には矛盾がある。
There is a contradiction in his explanation.
その二つの主張は矛盾している。
Those two claims contradict each other.
Specifically refers to a point of contradiction, often used in analysis or debate.
彼の理論の矛盾点を指摘した。
I pointed out the contradictions in his theory.
Saying or doing something that goes against what was previously said or done.
To say something contradictory. A natural way to describe verbal contradiction.
彼はさっきと言っていることが矛盾している。
What he's saying now contradicts what he said earlier.
A set phrase meaning inconsistency between words and actions. More formal and often used in written criticism.
彼の言行不一致には呆れる。
I'm disgusted by the contradiction between his words and actions.
Self-contradiction. Used when a person's own statements or beliefs conflict with each other.
A situation where two facts, ideas, or conditions cannot both be true or exist together.
Also used for conflicting situations or requirements.
利益と環境保護の間には矛盾がある。
There is a contradiction between profit and environmental protection.
To be mutually contradictory or incompatible. Often used for abstract concepts or interests.
Confrontation or conflict. Can imply contradiction when two positions are opposed.
A person's actions or traits that are not consistent with each other.
To feel a contradiction. Commonly used when sensing inconsistency in someone's behavior or a situation.
彼の優しさと冷酷さに矛盾を感じる。
I feel a contradiction between his kindness and cruelty.
Describes something mismatched or inconsistent, often in appearance, behavior, or statements. Casual.
彼の言動はちぐはぐだ。
His words and actions are contradictory (inconsistent).
矛盾 implies logical inconsistency, not just a difference of opinion. For simple disagreement, use 意見が違う (いけんがちがう) or 反対 (はんたい).
矛盾 is often used with する (to contradict), がある (there is a contradiction), or を感じる (to feel a contradiction). It's a very common word in both spoken and written Japanese.
彼の主張は自己矛盾に陥っている。
His argument falls into self-contradiction.
Freedom and equality sometimes contradict each other.
彼らの意見は対立している。
Their opinions are in contradiction (conflict).