paradox
paradox a statement or proposition which, despite sound (or apparently sound) reasoning from acceptable premises, leads to a conclusion that seems senseless, logically unacceptable, or self-contradictory; a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition which when investigated or explained may prove to be well founded or true.
Recorded from the mid 16th century (originally denoting a statement contrary to accepted opinion), the word comes via late Latin from Greek paradoxon ‘contrary (opinion)’.
See also liar paradox, Tristram Shandy paradox.
Recorded from the mid 16th century (originally denoting a statement contrary to accepted opinion), the word comes via late Latin from Greek paradoxon ‘contrary (opinion)’.
See also liar paradox, Tristram Shandy paradox.
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