Contradictiousness (pronounced /ˌkɒntrədɪkˈtɪʃəsnəs/) is a rare word that describes the state or quality of being contradictory. The spelling of this word is based on the root word "contradict", which means to say or do something that is the opposite or contrary of something already said or done. The suffix "ious" means "full of" or "having the qualities of". Therefore, "contradictiousness" means full of contradictions or exhibiting contradictory behavior.
Contradictiousness is a noun that refers to the quality or state of being contradictory or contradictory in nature. It is derived from the word "contradict," which means to assert the opposite or denial of a statement, thought, or action. Contradictiousness encompasses the tendency or inclination to exhibit conflicting or opposing qualities, ideas, assertions, or behavior.
When someone demonstrates contradictiousness, they frequently engage in actions or express opinions that are contradictory or inconsistent with their previous statements or beliefs. They may often argue for two conflicting positions simultaneously, making it difficult to discern their true stance on a particular issue. Contradictiousness can also refer to tendencies towards inconsistency, vacillation, or whimsical behavior.
The concept of contradictiousness can be found in various contexts, such as politics, philosophy, or interpersonal relationships. In political discourse, contradictiousness can manifest in politicians changing their positions solely for political expediency, often contradicting their prior promises or statements. In philosophy, contradictiousness can describe incompatible or contradictory ideas or theories within a particular philosophical system or between different systems.
Overall, contradictiousness refers to the condition or quality of being characterized by contradictions or exhibiting conflicting tendencies. It captures the idea of inconsistency, contradiction, and disagreement within a person, statement, action, or belief system.
The term "contradictiousness" is formed from the word "contradiction" and the suffix "-ness". Let's break it down:
- "Contradiction": This noun originated in the late 16th century and comes from the Latin "contradictio" meaning "speaking against", which stems from the verb "contradictus", combining "contra" (against) and "dicere" (to say).
- "-ness": This is a suffix commonly added to nouns to form abstract nouns indicating a state, condition, quality, or degree.
Therefore, "contradictiousness" is a noun derived from "contradiction" that refers to the state or quality of being contradictory.