Question

Which statement is an example of a paradox?

A.
His sister is awfully pretty.
B.
You have to be cruel to be kind.
C.
The elephant’s name is Tiny.
D.
It was dark and dim in the doorway

Answer 1

A paradox in literature is when a sentence or phrase contradicts itself but is still somehow accurate or could be if investigated further.

I see that the option “Her sister is awfully pretty” might seem to be the answer, but it is not. In colloquial/informal English the word “awfully” essentially means “very.”

The answer you seek is, “You have to be cruel to be kind.” This is the answer because it is a phrase that conveys a meaning that contradicts itself but could possibly be truthful or accurate in some shape or form.

I hope this helps, and apologizes if I am wrong; please ask if you have any questions.