Translation guide
A paradox is a statement or situation that seems to contradict itself but may reveal a deeper truth. In Japanese, the concept is expressed through specific terms, set phrases, and explanatory patterns.
A statement or proposition that seems self-contradictory or absurd but in reality expresses a possible truth.
The standard term for a logical paradox; a statement that goes against common sense but may be true.
「急がば回れ」は逆説の一例だ。
"Haste makes waste" is an example of a paradox.
Loanword from English, used in academic or technical contexts.
このパラドックスは数学的に解明された。
This paradox has been mathematically resolved.
Literally 'contradiction'; often used for logical inconsistencies, but can also describe paradoxical situations.
彼の主張には矛盾がある。
There is a contradiction in his argument.
A situation or fact that combines contradictory features or qualities.
Adjectival form meaning 'paradoxical', used to describe situations or phenomena.
貧しい国ほど出生率が高いという逆説的な現象がある。
There is a paradoxical phenomenon where poorer countries have higher birth rates.
Means 'contradictory', often used for situations that seem inconsistent.
彼の行動は矛盾している。
His actions are contradictory.
Describing someone who embodies opposing characteristics.
Literally 'harboring contradictions', used for a person full of paradoxes.
彼は矛盾を抱えた人物だ。
He is a paradoxical figure.
Well-known paradoxical statements or concepts.
The liar paradox: 'This statement is false.'
嘘つきのパラドックスは自己言及の矛盾を示す。
The liar paradox illustrates self-referential contradiction.
Zeno's paradoxes, such as Achilles and the tortoise.
ゼノンのパラドックスは無限分割の問題を提起する。
Zeno's paradox raises the problem of infinite divisibility.
逆説 (paradox) implies a deeper truth behind the apparent contradiction, while 矛盾 (contradiction) simply points out inconsistency. Use 逆説 for philosophical or rhetorical paradoxes, and 矛盾 for logical flaws or everyday inconsistencies.
パラドックス is understood but sounds academic. In casual conversation, it's more natural to explain the contradiction using 矛盾 or rephrase the idea.
立っている方が歩くより疲れるというのは逆説だ。
It's a paradox that standing is more tiring than walking.
寛容のパラドックスは、無制限の寛容が寛容の消滅を招くと述べる。
The paradox of tolerance states that unlimited tolerance leads to the disappearance of tolerance.