矛盾 máodùn contradiction
contradiction; conflicting views; contradictory
How to remember 矛盾: 矛 spear + 盾 shield = contradiction.
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How it is used
- A contradiction / conflict; also 'conflicted' - 他们之间有矛盾 (tāmen zhījiān yǒu máodùn) there's conflict between them; 内心很矛盾 feel torn inside.
- From the fable of the 'spear and shield' - literally 矛 (spear) + 盾 (shield). Covers logical contradictions, interpersonal conflicts, and inner ambivalence.