矛盾

• Reading: むじゅん
• Romaji: mujun
• Kanji breakdown: 矛 (mu) — spear, halberd; 盾 (jun) — shield
• Pronunciation: /mɯ.dʑɯ.ɴ/

Meaning

Contradiction; inconsistency. A situation where two things cannot both be true at the same time.

A noun that also functions as a する verb (矛盾する means 'to contradict'). Derived from a famous Chinese parable about a spear and a shield. Frequently used in logic, arguments, and everyday discussions about inconsistencies. Common patterns include 矛盾がある (there is a contradiction) and 矛盾している (is contradictory).

Examples

1. 彼の話には矛盾が多い。 There are many contradictions in his story.
2. 言っていることと行動が矛盾している。 What he says contradicts what he does.
3. その理論は科学的な事実と矛盾する。 That theory contradicts scientific facts.

Usage Guide

Context: logic, debate, daily conversation

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From the Chinese parable of a merchant who claimed his spear (矛) could pierce any shield and his shield (盾) could block any spear, creating an impossible contradiction.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal