contradiction in terms
A logical or rhetorical term for a phrase that contradicts itself, such as 'round square' or 'deafening silence'. Used in formal or academic contexts.
'Round square' is an example of a contradiction in terms.
His explanation contains a contradiction in terms.
矛盾 is a general term for contradiction or inconsistency, while 名辞矛盾 specifically refers to a contradiction within a single term or phrase.
Compound of 名辞 (term, word) and 矛盾 (contradiction). The exact historical derivation is uncertain; the term is used in logic and rhetoric.