contradictory etymology

Etymology

Word: Contrary

Origin: Old French "contrarier", from Latin "contra" (against)

Meaning: Opposite, conflicting

Origin of Discrepancy

The word "contrary" has a straightforward etymology and meaning. However, the term "contradictory" has a more nuanced meaning and usage.

Meaning of Contradictory

Word: Contradictory

Origin: Latin "contradicere", from "contra" (against) and "dicere" (to say)

Meaning: Stating the opposite, mutually exclusive

Discrepancy

While both "contrary" and "contradictory" involve opposition, the key difference is that "contradictory" implies a direct contradiction, while "contrary" refers to a more general contrast or opposition.

Example:

• Two statements are contrary if they express different opinions but do not necessarily negate each other (e.g., "It is sunny" vs. "It is cloudy").
• Two statements are contradictory if they make opposing claims that cannot both be true (e.g., "It is sunny" vs. "It is not sunny").

Conclusion

The discrepancy between the etymology and meaning of "contradictory" stems from the fact that the word "contra" (against) can have different implications depending on the context. In the case of "contradictory," the opposition is explicitly expressed in the form of a direct contradiction.

contradictory relate terms

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• Egypt

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