What term describes an apparently contradictory statement that actually contains some truth?

A paradox is a statement that, despite apparently contradictory elements, reveals a deeper truth when examined more closely. It often challenges conventional thinking or illuminates a truth through juxtaposition that might not be initially apparent. This literary device is frequently used to provoke thought and encourage readers to consider perspectives that transcend the obvious.

For example, a well-known paradox is "less is more." At face value, this seems contradictory, as less cannot logically equal more; however, it suggests that simplicity can lead to greater impact than complexity. By using a paradox, authors can engage readers on a deeper intellectual level, encouraging a re-evaluation of accepted beliefs.

In contrast, parody emulates or mocks another work and typically serves a humorous purpose, rather than revealing hidden truths; pathos evokes emotional responses but doesn't inherently contain contradictions; and parallelism emphasizes similar structures within phrases or sentences for rhetorical effect, without the element of contradiction that defines a paradox.