contradict
To say or show that something is opposite to another claim.
ExampleThe new evidence contradicts the theory discussed earlier.
ExampleThe professor gives an example that contradicts the reading passage.
Usage Scenarios
Integrated listening
Listen for contradict when the speaker challenges the reading's explanation.
ExampleThe professor contradicts the reading by arguing that the fossil evidence is unreliable.
Reading evidence
Use it when new data goes against a proposed idea.
ExampleThe survey results contradict the assumption that students prefer larger classes.
Usage Guide
Recognize contradict when one piece of information directly goes against another. In TOEFL integrated tasks, a lecture may contradict the reading point by point.
Strong patterns include contradict a claim, contradict the theory, and evidence contradicts the explanation. These patterns make the disagreement explicit.
Do not use contradict for a small difference in emphasis. Contradict means the two ideas cannot both be true in the same way.
Word Forms & Word Building
Contradict is built from contra-, meaning against, plus the dict root connected with saying. The word literally points to speaking or showing against a claim.
Contradiction uses the noun suffix -ion to name the conflict between two ideas or facts.
Contradictory uses the adjective ending -ory. Contradictory evidence points in opposite directions and cannot comfortably support the same conclusion.
Meaning Boundaries
Contradict vs contrast
Contrast means show a difference. Contradict means directly oppose or disprove a claim.
Contradict vs challenge
Challenge can mean question or weaken. Contradict is stronger because it points to opposition.
Register
Contradict is neutral and common in academic discussion, TOEFL lectures, and integrated responses.
Memory Tricks
Think contra as against. Contradict means speak or show against another claim.
In TOEFL notes, mark C when the lecture contradicts the reading.
Pair the word with evidence: evidence contradicts, data contradicts, example contradicts.
Common Traps
Do not write contradict with. The verb is usually direct: the data contradicts the theory.
Do not use contradict when the ideas are merely different but compatible.