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自相矛盾 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
自相矛盾zìxiāngmáodùnto contradict oneselfHSK 7, unknown, 29 strokes, rank #19072, Very Hard
自相矛盾zìxiāngmáodùnself-contradictoryHSK 7, unknown, 29 strokes, rank #19072, Very Hard
自相矛盾zìxiāngmáodùninconsistentHSK 7, unknown, 29 strokes, rank #19072, Very Hard
zìxiāngmáodùn(zi4xiang1mao2dun4) T4
  1. 1to contradict oneself
  2. 2self-contradictory
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March 24, 2026

自相矛盾zìxiāngmáodùn(zi4xiang1mao2dun4)

自相矛盾 is an idiom that means to contradict oneself or to have self-inconsistent statements or actions. It is commonly used to describe situations where someone's words conflict with their actions, highlighting a lack of coherence in reasoning or behavior.

Strokes29Frequency#19072DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note

In Chinese culture, logical consistency and harmony in speech and action are valued. This idiom reflects the importance of integrity in communication, a concept that has deep roots in Confucian teachings.

Memory Tip

Imagine a person holding a spear (矛) and a shield (盾) at the same time, both claiming to be the strongest. The imagery of these opposing objects helps you remember 'self' (自) and their contradictory nature (相矛盾) as they can't both be right.

Meanings of 自相矛盾

zìxiāngmáodùn(zi4xiang1mao2dun4)
1to contradict oneself
2self-contradictory
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About 自相矛盾

自相矛盾Simplified
29Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

Podcast: 自相矛盾

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Podcast: 自相矛盾

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AI Study Notes for 自相矛盾

Usage Notes

This idiom is often used in both formal and informal contexts, so it is versatile. A common mistake is to use it without appropriate context; ensure that the contradictory statements are clear. Be careful with tone, as mispronouncing the tones can lead to confusion.

HSK Study Tips

自相矛盾 is a useful idiom for intermediate learners, as it connects directly with discussions about logic and reasoning. Focus on practicing scenarios where people might contradict themselves to reinforce understanding.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse the order of the characters, mistakenly saying 矛盾自相 instead of 自相矛盾. Additionally, using it inappropriately in casual conversation can lead to misunderstanding; it's best used in contexts where clear contradictions are evident.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 自相矛盾

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Idiom Spotlight: 自相矛盾

Chengyu Origin Story
Literal meaning:self mutual spear shield

Component Characters

自zìfrom
HSK 46 strokes自
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相Xiāngeach other
9 strokes目
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矛máospear
HSK 75 strokes矛
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盾dùnshield
HSK 79 strokes目
View full entry

How to say to contradict oneself in Chinese

“to contradict oneself” in Chinese is自相矛盾zìxiāngmáodùn

自相矛盾 is an idiom that means to contradict oneself or to have self-inconsistent statements or actions. It is commonly used to describe situations where someone's words conflict with their actions, highlighting a lack of coherence in reasoning or behavior.

When to use 自相矛盾

This idiom is often used in both formal and informal contexts, so it is versatile. A common mistake is to use it without appropriate context; ensure that the contradictory statements are clear. Be careful with tone, as mispronouncing the tones can lead to confusion.

What learners get wrong

Learners often confuse the order of the characters, mistakenly saying 矛盾自相 instead of 自相矛盾. Additionally, using it inappropriately in casual conversation can lead to misunderstanding; it's best used in contexts where clear contradictions are evident.

Write 自相矛盾

自
相
矛
盾

Practice writing 自相矛盾 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.

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Frequently Asked Questions about 自相矛盾

Yes, this idiom can be appropriately used in formal writing to discuss logical inconsistencies.

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