What term refers to a statement that seems self-contradictory yet expresses a possible truth?

A statement that appears to contradict itself but still conveys a deeper or possible truth is known as a paradox. Paradoxes often challenge our understanding by presenting situations or ideas that may seem illogical or contradictory at first glance, yet when analyzed, they can reveal insights or provoke thought.

For example, the statement "less is more" suggests that simplicity can lead to greater impact, illustrating that sometimes limitations can enhance clarity or effectiveness. This encapsulation of two opposing ideas expresses a truth that might not be immediately evident.

Other choices, while also valid terms in their own right, do not fit the definition of a paradox. An analogy is a comparison between two things intended to clarify a concept. Hyperbole refers to exaggerated statements not meant to be taken literally, and irony involves a situation or expression where the intended meaning is opposite to the literal meaning. These terms have distinct meanings separate from the nuanced duality offered by a paradox.