B1 noun #6,000 most common 8 min read

contradicción

When you hear the word "contradicción," think about things that don't go together. It's like when someone says two things that are the opposite of each other. For example, if you say you love to eat meat but then say you are a vegetarian, that's a contradiction. It's when there's a disagreement between different ideas or statements. So, a "contradicción" is simply when things clash or don't make sense together.

When you have two things that just don't go together, that's a contradicción. Think of it as two ideas or actions that are totally opposite or in conflict. For example, saying you love animals but then wearing a fur coat is a contradicción.

It's important to recognize contradictions in arguments or discussions, as they often point to a flaw in reasoning. In Spanish, you might hear someone say, "Eso es una contradicción" when something doesn't make sense because it clashes with something else.

When using "contradicción," it's often followed by "entre" (between) to specify what elements are in opposition. For example, you might say "Hay una contradicción entre lo que dice y lo que hace" (There's a contradiction between what he says and what he does).

Another common construction is to use it with verbs like "existir" (to exist), "haber" (there to be), or "encontrar" (to find). You can also use adjectives to describe the type of contradiction, such as "clara" (clear), "flagrante" (flagrant), or "interna" (internal).

Remember that "contradicción" is a feminine noun, so any adjectives modifying it must also be feminine.

contradicción in 30 Seconds

  • Spanish noun
  • Means 'contradiction'
  • Opposite ideas

§ What 'contradicción' means

Definition
A combination of statements, ideas, or features that are opposed to one another.

Alright, let's talk about contradicción. This word is a noun, and it's pretty straightforward. It means 'contradiction' in English. Just like in English, a contradiction happens when you have two or more things that don't make sense together. They're opposite, or they clash. Think about it: 'contra' means against, and 'dicción' relates to speaking or saying. So, literally, it's like 'speaking against' or 'saying opposite things'.

You'll hear or read contradicción whenever people are discussing something that has conflicting elements. This could be anything from statements made by a person to ideas within a plan, or even features of an object or situation. It's a common word in everyday conversation, especially when people are debating, analyzing, or pointing out inconsistencies.

§ When do people use 'contradicción'?

People use contradicción in a few main scenarios. Let's break them down:

  • When someone says two different things that can't both be true. This is probably the most common use. If a politician says one thing today and the opposite tomorrow, that's a contradicción.
  • When ideas or arguments are in conflict. In a debate or discussion, if two ideas can't logically coexist, you've got a contradicción.
  • When features or aspects of something are incompatible. Sometimes, a situation or even a product can have contradictory features. For example, a car that's advertised as both super fast and incredibly fuel-efficient might present a contradicción.
  • In a more philosophical or abstract sense. You might hear about the contradicción inherent in a system or a way of thinking.

Let's look at some examples to make this concrete:

Sus dos declaraciones son una contradicción clara.

Translation hint: "His/Her two statements are a clear contradiction." Here, we're talking about conflicting statements.

Hay una contradicción en tu argumento.

Translation hint: "There is a contradiction in your argument." This points out an inconsistency in someone's reasoning.

El nuevo plan presenta varias contradicciones.

Translation hint: "The new plan presents several contradictions." This refers to conflicting elements within a plan.

Understanding contradicción is key to following and participating in more complex conversations in Spanish. It's a word that helps you identify and talk about logical inconsistencies, which is a big part of how we communicate and understand the world. So, keep an ear out for it, and don't be afraid to use it yourself when you spot something that doesn't quite add up!

§ What "Contradicción" Means

The Spanish word contradicción is a noun that you'll hear in many different contexts. It's an important word to understand as you move into intermediate Spanish.

Spanish Word
contradicción (noun), CEFR B1
Definition
A combination of statements, ideas, or features that are opposed to one another.

§ Hearing "Contradicción" at Work

In a work setting, you might hear contradicción when discussing project plans, conflicting reports, or inconsistent data. It's about pointing out when things don't add up or when two statements can't both be true at the same time. Knowing this word helps you engage in more complex discussions.

El informe presentaba una contradicción en los datos de ventas del último trimestre. (The report presented a contradiction in the sales data from the last quarter.)

Hay una contradicción entre lo que dijo el gerente y las nuevas directrices. (There is a contradiction between what the manager said and the new guidelines.)

§ Using "Contradicción" in School

In an academic setting, contradicción is a common term. You might encounter it in literature, philosophy, history, or even science. Teachers and professors use it to highlight opposing viewpoints, logical flaws, or inconsistencies within theories or arguments. Understanding this word is key to critical thinking in Spanish.

El ensayo del estudiante contenía varias contradicciones lógicas. (The student's essay contained several logical contradictions.)

En la filosofía, a menudo se estudian las contradicciones en el pensamiento humano. (In philosophy, contradictions in human thought are often studied.)

§ "Contradicción" in the News

The news is another place where you'll frequently encounter contradicción. Journalists use it to describe conflicting reports from different sources, inconsistencies in official statements, or policy proposals that seem to work against each other. Being able to recognize this word helps you follow political debates and understand complex social issues.

  • Political statements: When a politician says one thing one day and another thing the next, that's a contradicción.
  • Reports: If two news reports about the same event have very different facts, there's a contradicción.
  • Expert opinions: Sometimes, experts disagree, leading to a contradicción in their analyses.

El portavoz del gobierno negó cualquier contradicción en sus declaraciones. (The government spokesperson denied any contradiction in their statements.)

La oposición señaló una clara contradicción en la nueva ley de vivienda. (The opposition pointed out a clear contradiction in the new housing law.)

As you can see, contradicción is a versatile word used in many important discussions. Pay attention to how it's used in different contexts to solidify your understanding.

§ What 'Contradicción' Means

Spanish Word
contradicción (noun)
English Definition
A combination of statements, ideas, or features that are opposed to one another.

§ Examples of 'Contradicción' in Use

Here are some practical examples to help you understand how to use 'contradicción' naturally:

Su testimonio estaba lleno de contradicciones.

His testimony was full of contradictions.

Hay una clara contradicción entre lo que dice y lo que hace.

There is a clear contradiction between what he says and what he does.

No veo la contradicción en tu argumento.

I don't see the contradiction in your argument.

§ Similar Words and When to Use 'Contradicción'

Understanding 'contradicción' is key, but it's also helpful to know how it relates to other similar Spanish words. While 'contradicción' specifically points to an opposition between ideas, statements, or elements, other words can express related concepts but with different nuances.

  • Oposición: This is a more general term for 'opposition' or 'resistance.' While a 'contradicción' implies an 'oposición' in ideas or statements, 'oposición' can refer to a wider range of opposing forces, such as political opposition, physical resistance, or even simply being opposite in position. You might have 'oposición política' (political opposition) or 'oposición de fuerzas' (opposition of forces).

Enfrentaron mucha oposición a su propuesta.

They faced a lot of opposition to their proposal.

You would use 'contradicción' when you're talking about an inconsistency or a conflict specifically within statements, thoughts, or actions. It's about ideas that don't align or that go against each other.

  • Inconsistencia: This word is very close to 'contradicción' and can often be used interchangeably, especially when referring to a lack of consistency in arguments or behavior. However, 'inconsistencia' might suggest more of a general lack of firmness or reliability, while 'contradicción' implies a direct clash of ideas.

Su historia tiene muchas inconsistencias.

His story has many inconsistencies.

While you could say 'su historia tiene muchas contradicciones,' 'inconsistencias' might be used for smaller, less direct clashes, or simply a lack of coherence. 'Contradicción' is often a stronger word, indicating a more direct and undeniable conflict.

  • Paradójico (adjective) / Paradoja (noun): A 'paradoja' is a statement or proposition that, despite sound (or apparently sound) reasoning from acceptable premises, leads to a conclusion that seems senseless, logically unacceptable, or self-contradictory. While a 'contradicción' is a direct clash, a 'paradoja' often presents something that seems contradictory but might contain a deeper truth or meaning.

Es una paradoja que, para encontrar la paz, a veces hay que luchar.

It's a paradox that, to find peace, sometimes you have to fight.

You would use 'paradoja' when something appears to be a contradiction but has an underlying truth or an ironic twist, rather than a straightforward conflict of ideas.

By understanding these differences, you can choose the most precise word to express your ideas in Spanish, making your communication clearer and more natural. Practice using 'contradicción' and its related terms in different contexts to solidify your understanding.

Fun Fact

The word 'contradicción' shares its root with the English word 'contradiction', both stemming from the Latin 'contra' (against) and 'dicere' (to speak).

Examples by Level

1

Hay una contradicción en lo que dices.

There is a contradiction in what you say.

2

Su testimonio está lleno de contradicciones.

His testimony is full of contradictions.

3

No veo la contradicción en su argumento.

I don't see the contradiction in his argument.

4

Es una contradicción obvia.

It's an obvious contradiction.

5

La contradicción me confunde.

The contradiction confuses me.

6

Hay una contradicción entre sus palabras y sus acciones.

There is a contradiction between his words and his actions.

7

La película tiene algunas contradicciones menores.

The movie has some minor contradictions.

8

Evita las contradicciones en tu trabajo.

Avoid contradictions in your work.

1

La situación económica actual es una contradicción, hay mucho desempleo pero los precios suben.

The current economic situation is a contradiction, there is a lot of unemployment but prices are rising.

Here, 'contradicción' is used as a direct noun after 'una'.

2

Es una contradicción que digas que te gusta la paz pero siempre estás discutiendo.

It's a contradiction that you say you like peace but you're always arguing.

'Es una contradicción que' is a common phrase to introduce a contradictory idea.

3

En su discurso había varias contradicciones que la gente notó.

In his speech there were several contradictions that people noticed.

The plural 'contradicciones' is used with 'varias' (several).

4

Su comportamiento es una contradicción con sus propias palabras.

His behavior is a contradiction to his own words.

'con' (with/to) is used to link the contradiction to something else.

5

No veo la contradicción en querer estudiar y también trabajar.

I don't see the contradiction in wanting to study and also work.

Used in a negative sentence to express not seeing a conflict.

6

La contradicción de la vida es que a veces las cosas malas traen algo bueno.

The contradiction of life is that sometimes bad things bring something good.

A general statement about life's ironies or contradictions.

7

Hay una clara contradicción entre lo que prometió y lo que hizo.

There is a clear contradiction between what he promised and what he did.

'clara' (clear) emphasizes the obviousness of the contradiction.

8

El profesor señaló la contradicción en mi argumento.

The professor pointed out the contradiction in my argument.

'Señalar la contradicción' means 'to point out the contradiction'.

Often Confused With

contradicción vs Contradicción vs. Oposición

While similar, 'oposición' refers to a general state of being against something, whereas 'contradicción' specifically highlights statements or ideas that are logically inconsistent or opposing each other.

contradicción vs Contradicción vs. Discrepancia

'Discrepancia' suggests a difference or disagreement, often in opinions or facts. 'Contradicción' implies a more direct and fundamental conflict between statements or ideas.

contradicción vs Contradicción vs. Paradoja

A 'paradoja' is a seemingly self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained may prove to be well founded or true. A 'contradicción' is a direct logical inconsistency.

Easily Confused

contradicción vs Actual

Sounds like 'actual' in English, but means 'current' or 'present'.

'Actual' in Spanish refers to something happening now, while 'actual' in English means real or genuine.

La situación actual es complicada. (The *current* situation is complicated.)

contradicción vs Embarazada

Sounds like 'embarrassed' in English, but means 'pregnant'.

If you want to say 'embarrassed' in Spanish, use 'avergonzado/a'.

Mi hermana está embarazada. (My sister is *pregnant*.)

contradicción vs Constipado

Sounds like 'constipated' in English, but means 'having a cold' or 'stuffed up'.

To say 'constipated' in Spanish, use 'estreñido/a'.

Estoy constipado y no puedo respirar bien. (I have a *cold* and can't breathe well.)

contradicción vs Sensible

Sounds like 'sensible' in English, but means 'sensitive'.

If you want to say 'sensible' in Spanish, use 'razonable' or 'sensato/a'.

Ella es muy sensible a los ruidos fuertes. (She is very *sensitive* to loud noises.)

contradicción vs Éxito

Sounds like 'exit' in English, but means 'success'.

To say 'exit' in Spanish, use 'salida'.

Su nuevo libro fue un gran éxito. (His new book was a great *success*.)

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'contra dance' where two dancers are moving in 'diction' (speaking) against each other's steps. It's a dance of opposing movements and ideas.

Visual Association

Picture two cartoon characters, one saying 'yes' and the other saying 'no' at the same time, with thought bubbles showing opposing ideas clashing above their heads. This creates a visual of 'contradiction'.

Word Web

conflicto (conflict) discrepancia (discrepancy) inconsistencia (inconsistency) opuesto (opposed) paradoja (paradox)

Challenge

Think of a time you've experienced a contradiction. Describe it in a few Spanish sentences using 'contradicción'. For example: 'Vi una contradicción en las noticias hoy.' (I saw a contradiction in the news today.)

Word Origin

Late Latin

Original meaning: A speaking against, an opposition in words

Indo-European

Cultural Context

When discussing ideas or arguments in Spanish-speaking cultures, acknowledging a 'contradicción' is common. It's often used in academic or political discourse, but also in everyday conversations to point out inconsistencies in someone's statements or actions. Understanding this term helps in grasping the nuances of critical thinking and debate in Spanish.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Think of contradicción as when two things just don't make sense together. Like saying 'it's raining but the sun is shining brightly' – those ideas contradict each other.

Yes, it can! You might say someone's actions are a contradicción to their words if they say one thing and do another. For example, 'Sus acciones son una contradicción con sus palabras.' (His actions are a contradiction to his words.)

Not necessarily just arguments. It can be about logical inconsistencies in statements, ideas, or even a situation. For instance, 'Hay una contradicción en el informe.' (There's a contradiction in the report.)

Contradicción means two things are directly opposed or inconsistent. Confusión is more about a lack of clarity or understanding. You can be confused by a contradiction, but they're not the same thing.

Sometimes. Irony often involves a contradiction between expectation and reality. However, contradicción is a more direct statement about opposing elements. 'Es una contradicción que el doctor fume.' (It's a contradiction that the doctor smokes.) This could also be ironic.

You'll often see verbs like 'haber' (to be/there is), 'existir' (to exist), 'encontrar' (to find), and adjectives like 'clara' (clear), 'obvia' (obvious), 'interna' (internal). For example, 'Hay una contradicción obvia.' (There's an obvious contradiction.)

The verb is 'contradecir'. So, 'Él contradice lo que dice.' (He contradicts what he says.)

It's a standard, neutral word. You can use it in both formal and informal contexts without sounding out of place.

Sure: 'La idea de una libertad absoluta sin responsabilidad es una contradicción filosófica.' (The idea of absolute freedom without responsibility is a philosophical contradiction.)

You could say 'una contradicción en los términos' or 'un oxímoron', depending on the specific context. 'Silencio ruidoso' es una contradicción en los términos. (Noisy silence is a contradiction in terms.)

Test Yourself 108 questions

fill blank A1

Yo no tengo ___ (cars).

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: coches

To make 'coche' plural, you add '-s'.

fill blank A1

Ella ___ (eats) pan.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: come

'Come' is the correct conjugation of 'comer' for 'ella' (she).

fill blank A1

Nosotros ___ (are) estudiantes.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: somos

'Somos' is the correct conjugation of 'ser' for 'nosotros' (we).

fill blank A1

Tú ___ (have) un libro.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: tienes

'Tienes' is the correct conjugation of 'tener' for 'tú' (you, informal singular).

fill blank A1

Ellos ___ (drink) agua.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: beben

'Beben' is the correct conjugation of 'beber' for 'ellos' (they).

fill blank A1

Yo ___ (speak) español.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: hablo

'Hablo' is the correct conjugation of 'hablar' for 'yo' (I).

listening A1

Greeting

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Hola
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening A1

Farewell

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Adiós
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening A1

How are you?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: ¿Cómo estás?
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

Repite: "Hola"

Focus: o-la

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

Repite: "Adiós"

Focus: a-dios

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

Repite: "Por favor"

Focus: por fa-vor

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
sentence order A1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: no es una contradicción

This phrase means 'it is not a contradiction'.

sentence order A1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: hay una contradicción aquí

This phrase means 'there is a contradiction here'.

sentence order A1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: eso es una contradicción lógica

This means 'that is a logical contradiction'.

fill blank A2

Hay una clara ___ entre lo que dices y lo que haces.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicción

The sentence implies a conflict between words and actions, which is a 'contradicción'.

fill blank A2

Sus argumentos estaban llenos de ___.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicciones

If arguments are not consistent, they are full of 'contradicciones'.

fill blank A2

No entiendo la ___ en su declaración.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicción

If something doesn't make sense in a statement, there's a 'contradicción'.

fill blank A2

Encontré una ___ en el informe.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicción

A report should be consistent; if not, there's a 'contradicción'.

fill blank A2

Su política presenta una ___ interna.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicción

When parts of a policy don't align, it has an internal 'contradicción'.

fill blank A2

La situación es una ___ para el gobierno.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicción

If a situation goes against stated goals, it's a 'contradicción'.

multiple choice A2

Choose the word that means 'contradiction'.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: La contradicción

'La contradicción' is the Spanish word for contradiction.

multiple choice A2

Which sentence uses 'contradicción' correctly?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Su argumento tiene una contradicción clara. (His argument has a clear contradiction.)

Contradiction refers to opposing statements or ideas, so it fits with an argument.

multiple choice A2

If someone says two different things that cannot both be true, what is that called?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Una contradicción

Saying two things that cannot both be true is the definition of a contradiction.

true false A2

Una contradicción es cuando dos ideas son iguales. (A contradiction is when two ideas are the same.)

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

A contradiction is when two ideas are *opposed*, not the same.

true false A2

Es posible encontrar una contradicción en un libro. (It is possible to find a contradiction in a book.)

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

Yes, if a book presents conflicting information, it contains a contradiction.

true false A2

La palabra 'contradicción' significa que algo está roto. (The word 'contradiction' means something is broken.)

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

No, 'contradicción' refers to conflicting ideas or statements, not something being physically broken.

listening A2

What is being discussed?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Hay una contradicción en lo que dices.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening A2

What is the speaker looking for?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: No veo la contradicción en su argumento.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening A2

How is the idea described?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Esa idea es una contradicción.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

Hay una contradicción en su historia.

Focus: contradicción

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

¿Puedes ver la contradicción?

Focus: contradicción

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

Eso es una contradicción, ¿no crees?

Focus: contradicción

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing A2

Write a short sentence in Spanish using 'no' to express a disagreement or an opposition to an idea.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

No, eso no es verdad.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing A2

Form a simple Spanish sentence describing something that doesn't make sense or seems contradictory.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Esto no tiene sentido para mí.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing A2

Write a Spanish sentence comparing two things that are opposite, using 'pero'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

La casa es grande pero el jardín es pequeño.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
reading A2

¿Qué hace María que parece inconsistente?

Read this passage:

María dice que le gusta el sol, pero siempre usa un paraguas cuando camina.

¿Qué hace María que parece inconsistente?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Usa un paraguas cuando camina.

La inconsistencia está entre decir que le gusta el sol y usar un paraguas.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Usa un paraguas cuando camina.

La inconsistencia está entre decir que le gusta el sol y usar un paraguas.

reading A2

¿Qué contradice las palabras de Juan?

Read this passage:

Juan dice que es muy puntual, pero siempre llega tarde a todas las reuniones.

¿Qué contradice las palabras de Juan?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Llega tarde a las reuniones.

La acción de llegar tarde contradice la afirmación de ser puntual.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Llega tarde a las reuniones.

La acción de llegar tarde contradice la afirmación de ser puntual.

reading A2

¿Qué es lo que no se entiende sobre el libro?

Read this passage:

El libro es muy largo, pero la historia es muy corta. No entiendo.

¿Qué es lo que no se entiende sobre el libro?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Es largo y la historia es corta.

La combinación de un libro largo con una historia corta es lo que causa la confusión.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Es largo y la historia es corta.

La combinación de un libro largo con una historia corta es lo que causa la confusión.

multiple choice B1

Which sentence demonstrates a 'contradicción'?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Juan dijo que le encanta la lluvia, pero siempre lleva un paraguas.

A 'contradicción' involves opposing ideas. Loving rain but always carrying an umbrella is a contradiction.

multiple choice B1

If someone says, 'No me gusta el café, pero bebo tres tazas al día,' what is this an example of?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Una contradicción.

Saying you don't like coffee but drinking three cups daily is a direct contradiction.

multiple choice B1

Which of these situations shows a 'contradicción'?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Ella quiere ser vegetariana pero come carne todos los días.

Wanting to be vegetarian but eating meat daily is a clear contradiction between desire and action.

true false B1

Decir 'Siempre miento' es una contradicción.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

If the statement 'Siempre miento' (I always lie) is true, then the statement itself must be a lie, creating a contradiction.

true false B1

Si una persona es muy tímida pero también extrovertida, eso es una contradicción.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

Being both very shy and extroverted are opposing personality traits, making it a contradiction.

true false B1

Una mesa que es cuadrada y redonda al mismo tiempo es una contradicción.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

An object cannot be both square and round simultaneously, which is a contradiction in its properties.

listening B1

Listen for 'contradicción'. It refers to something illogical in what someone said.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Hay una clara contradicción en sus palabras.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening B1

Listen for 'contradicción'. The speaker doesn't perceive an inconsistency.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: No veo la contradicción en su argumento.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening B1

Listen for 'contradicción'. This refers to an action that goes against beliefs.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Su comportamiento es una contradicción a sus principios.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

La contradicción en sus acciones era obvia.

Focus: con-tra-dic-ción

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

No hay contradicción entre lo que dijo y lo que hizo.

Focus: con-tra-dic-ción

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

Encuentro una contradicción en esa declaración.

Focus: con-tra-dic-ción

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
sentence order B1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Hay una contradicción en sus palabras.

This sentence means 'There is a contradiction in his/her words.' It is a common way to use 'contradicción'.

sentence order B1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Su actitud es una contradicción con lo que dice.

This sentence means 'His/Her attitude is a contradiction to what he/she says.' 'Con lo que dice' means 'with what he/she says'.

sentence order B1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: La situación presenta una clara contradicción.

This sentence means 'The situation presents a clear contradiction.' 'Clara' means 'clear'.

multiple choice B2

Which sentence demonstrates a 'contradicción'?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Aunque dice que me quiere, siempre me ignora. (Although she says she loves me, she always ignores me.)

The statement 'dice que me quiere' (says she loves me) and 'siempre me ignora' (always ignores me) are opposed, creating a contradiction.

multiple choice B2

Which of the following best describes a 'contradicción' in a political speech?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: The speaker proposes two policies that cannot both be true or implemented simultaneously.

A contradiction involves opposing ideas. If two policies cannot both be true or implemented, they are contradictory.

multiple choice B2

Choose the option that is a 'contradicción'.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Él prometió ayudar, pero nunca apareció. (He promised to help, but he never showed up.)

The promise to help and the act of not showing up are opposing actions.

true false B2

Decir 'no tengo dinero' y luego comprar un coche nuevo es una contradicción.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

Stating you have no money and then buying a new car presents a clear contradiction in actions.

true false B2

Una contradicción siempre se resuelve fácilmente con una explicación sencilla.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

Contradictions often highlight inconsistencies or opposing viewpoints that are not always easy to reconcile or explain simply.

true false B2

Si una persona dice que ama la paz pero inicia una pelea, eso es una contradicción.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

Loving peace and initiating a fight are opposing ideas, making this a contradiction.

writing B2

Describe a situation where someone's actions contradicted their words. Use 'contradicción' at least once in your response.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Hubo una clara contradicción en su comportamiento. Él dijo que apoyaba el proyecto, pero luego votó en contra de todas las propuestas que lo habrían beneficiado. Sus acciones no coincidieron con sus palabras, lo que generó mucha confusión en el equipo.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing B2

Write about a time you observed a logical contradiction in an argument or statement. How did you react?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Durante un debate, escuché una contradicción lógica evidente. Un participante afirmó que todas las reglas deben ser flexibles, pero luego insistió en que una regla específica no debía romperse bajo ninguna circunstancia. Señalé la contradicción y pregunté cómo conciliaba ambas ideas.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing B2

Explain the concept of 'contradicción' to a friend using an example from everyday life.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Mira, la 'contradicción' es cuando algo no tiene sentido porque hay dos cosas que chocan. Por ejemplo, si un restaurante dice que solo usa ingredientes frescos, pero luego ves al cocinero sacando comida congelada de una caja, eso es una contradicción. Sus palabras y sus acciones no coinciden.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
reading B2

¿Qué contradicción señalaron los ciudadanos en la plataforma del político?

Read this passage:

El político prometió reducir los impuestos y, al mismo tiempo, aumentar drásticamente el gasto en servicios públicos. Muchos ciudadanos señalaron que esto representaba una clara contradicción en su plataforma electoral, ya que ambas metas son difíciles de lograr simultáneamente sin afectar otras áreas del presupuesto.

¿Qué contradicción señalaron los ciudadanos en la plataforma del político?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: La promesa de reducir impuestos y aumentar el gasto público.

La lectura indica que 'reducir los impuestos y, al mismo tiempo, aumentar drásticamente el gasto en servicios públicos' fue la contradicción señalada por los ciudadanos.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: La promesa de reducir impuestos y aumentar el gasto público.

La lectura indica que 'reducir los impuestos y, al mismo tiempo, aumentar drásticamente el gasto en servicios públicos' fue la contradicción señalada por los ciudadanos.

reading B2

¿Cuál fue la contradicción en el personaje principal de la novela?

Read this passage:

La novela presentaba una contradicción fascinante en el personaje principal: era un hombre conocido por su extrema honestidad, pero en un momento crucial de la trama, se vio obligado a mentir para proteger a sus seres queridos. Este dilema moral creó una tensión interesante en la narrativa.

¿Cuál fue la contradicción en el personaje principal de la novela?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Era honesto, pero tuvo que mentir para proteger a otros.

El pasaje menciona que el personaje principal era 'conocido por su extrema honestidad, pero en un momento crucial de la trama, se vio obligado a mentir', lo cual es la contradicción.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Era honesto, pero tuvo que mentir para proteger a otros.

El pasaje menciona que el personaje principal era 'conocido por su extrema honestidad, pero en un momento crucial de la trama, se vio obligado a mentir', lo cual es la contradicción.

reading B2

¿Qué generó una contradicción en el informe meteorológico?

Read this passage:

El informe meteorológico pronosticó un día soleado y despejado, sin embargo, a mediodía, un fuerte aguacero sorprendió a todos. Esta contradicción entre la predicción y la realidad dejó a muchos sin paraguas y con la ropa mojada.

¿Qué generó una contradicción en el informe meteorológico?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: El pronóstico de un día soleado seguido de un fuerte aguacero.

La lectura señala que la contradicción fue entre 'un día soleado y despejado' pronosticado y 'un fuerte aguacero' que ocurrió.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: El pronóstico de un día soleado seguido de un fuerte aguacero.

La lectura señala que la contradicción fue entre 'un día soleado y despejado' pronosticado y 'un fuerte aguacero' que ocurrió.

sentence order B2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Hay una clara contradicción entre sus palabras y sus acciones.

This sentence means: 'There is a clear contradiction between his/her words and actions.'

sentence order B2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: No puedo entender la contradicción en su argumento.

This sentence means: 'I cannot understand the contradiction in his/her argument.'

sentence order B2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: La contradicción era evidente para todos los presentes.

This sentence means: 'The contradiction was evident to everyone present.'

fill blank C1

La política económica del gobierno actual presenta una clara ___ en sus objetivos de crecimiento y sostenibilidad.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicción

The sentence talks about opposing objectives, which aligns with the meaning of 'contradicción'. 'Analogía' means analogy, 'paradoja' means paradox (similar but not the exact fit here), and 'concordancia' means concordance.

fill blank C1

Sus acciones a menudo caen en ___ con sus propias palabras, lo que genera desconfianza.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicción

When actions don't match words, it's a 'contradicción'. 'Armonía', 'sintonía', and 'coherencia' all imply agreement or consistency.

fill blank C1

Es una evidente ___ argumentar a favor de la libertad mientras se restringen los derechos básicos.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicción

Restricting rights while advocating for freedom is a clear 'contradicción'. The other options suggest agreement or sameness.

fill blank C1

El informe reveló una ___ flagrante entre los datos presentados y la realidad observada en el campo.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicción

A discrepancy between presented data and observed reality is a 'contradicción'. The other options imply agreement or relation.

fill blank C1

La nueva ley introduce una ___ interna que podría dificultar su implementación efectiva.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicción

An internal issue that hinders implementation points to a 'contradicción'. The other terms suggest positive alignment or combination.

fill blank C1

Su declaración inicial y su testimonio posterior presentan una clara ___ que el abogado explotó.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: contradicción

When statements don't match, it's a 'contradicción', which a lawyer would use to their advantage. The other options suggest agreement or clarification.

multiple choice C1

Which of these situations presents a clear 'contradicción'?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: A politician who promises to lower taxes while simultaneously proposing new public spending.

A politician promising to lower taxes and increase spending at the same time is a direct contradiction, as these actions usually oppose each other economically.

multiple choice C1

Identify the 'contradicción' in the following statement: 'Ella dice amar la naturaleza, pero tira basura en el parque.' (She says she loves nature, but throws trash in the park.)

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: The inconsistency between her words and her actions.

The contradiction lies in the disparity between claiming to love nature and actively harming it by littering.

multiple choice C1

Which phrase best describes a 'contradicción'?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: A situation where two elements are mutually exclusive or oppose each other.

A contradiction fundamentally involves opposing or mutually exclusive elements.

true false C1

It is a 'contradicción' to say you support animal rights but regularly eat meat from factory farms.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

Supporting animal rights while consuming products from factory farms (which often have poor animal welfare) is a clear contradiction in actions and beliefs.

true false C1

A logical argument with sound reasoning contains an inherent 'contradicción'.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

A logical argument, by definition, aims for consistency and avoids contradictions. If it contained an inherent contradiction, it would be illogical.

true false C1

The statement 'Estoy mintiendo' (I am lying) is a classic example of a 'contradicción' if the statement itself is true.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

If the statement 'I am lying' is true, then the speaker is indeed lying, which makes the statement false. If it's false, then the speaker isn't lying, making the statement true. This creates a paradox or contradiction.

listening C1

The government's economic policy presents a clear contradiction.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: La política económica del gobierno presenta una clara contradicción.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening C1

There is an inherent contradiction in his arguments.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Existe una contradicción inherente en sus argumentos.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening C1

I don't see the contradiction between what you say and what you do.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: No veo la contradicción entre lo que dices y lo que haces.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking C1

Read this aloud:

Intenta explicar la contradicción en este planteamiento.

Focus: contradicción

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking C1

Read this aloud:

¿Crees que hay una contradicción en sus palabras?

Focus: crees que

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking C1

Read this aloud:

Identifica cualquier contradicción en el texto.

Focus: identifica

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
sentence order C1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Su declaración es contradictoria.

The correct order forms a coherent sentence stating 'His/Her statement is contradictory.'

sentence order C1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Había una contradicción en su discurso.

This arrangement creates the sentence 'There was a contradiction in his/her speech.'

sentence order C1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Había una clara contradicción entre sus dos posturas.

The correct sequence forms the sentence 'There was a clear contradiction between his/her two positions.'

multiple choice C2

Choose the sentence where 'contradicción' is used correctly to describe a logical inconsistency.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Su argumento carecía de validez debido a una flagrante contradicción en sus premisas.

The correct option highlights a logical inconsistency within an argument, which is a core meaning of 'contradicción'. The other options describe contrasting elements or difficulties in understanding, not direct logical contradictions.

multiple choice C2

Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies a 'contradicción' in human behavior?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Un político que promueve la austeridad mientras vive con grandes lujos.

This scenario presents a clear conflict between stated beliefs (promoting austerity) and actions (living luxuriously), which is a common application of 'contradicción' in the context of human behavior.

multiple choice C2

Select the sentence that uses 'contradicción' to describe a conflict of ideas or principles.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: La contradicción entre el progreso tecnológico y la degradación ambiental es un desafío global.

This option accurately uses 'contradicción' to denote a clash between two opposing concepts or principles: technological progress and environmental degradation.

true false C2

Affirming that a square has three sides would be considered a 'contradicción' in geometry.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

A square, by definition, has four sides. Stating it has three sides creates a direct logical 'contradicción' with its established properties.

true false C2

If someone says they love both hot weather and cold weather equally, this statement contains a 'contradicción'.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

Liking both hot and cold weather is a preference for variety, not a direct 'contradicción'. One can appreciate different things without them being mutually exclusive in this context.

true false C2

The coexistence of extreme wealth and extreme poverty in the same society can be described as a social 'contradicción'.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

This situation highlights a stark and often viewed as illogical or unjust opposition within a social structure, making it a valid use of 'contradicción'.

/ 108 correct

Perfect score!

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!