paradoxum
[pa.raˈdɔk.sũː]neuter
The English word 'paradox' is translated into Latin as paradoxum.
The term refers to an apparent contradiction that is nonetheless true.
Meaning: apparent contradiction which is nonetheless true (noun)
Which one should you use?
In earlier periods of Latin, the Greek-based terms aporia and paradoxon were used as equivalents to the word paradox.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form paradoxum is a neuter noun.
Did you know?
- The Greek root of paradoxum combines 'para' meaning 'contrary to' and 'doxa' meaning 'opinion', meaning a paradox was originally just an opinion that went against the grain.
- Ancient Latin speakers used paradoxum not just for logic but as a literary device to shock an audience by asserting something blatantly contrary to common belief.
- While a paradoxum is a specific statement, the related term aporia describes the mental feeling of being stuck or 'pathless' after encountering one.
Examples in context
- Hic status est antinomia.This situation is a paradox.
- Hoc verum paradoxum est.This is a true paradox.
- In hoc libro paradoxum invenimus.We find a paradox in this book.
Example conversation
Julia and Marcus are discussing a philosophy book.
- JuliaLego paradoxum in libro.I am reading a paradox in the book.
- MarcusEstne paradoxum difficile?Is the paradox difficult?
- JuliaIta, sed est fascinans.Yes, but it is fascinating.
- MarcusDic mihi de eo.Tell me about it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “paradox” translations and entries paradoxum, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
