What term describes a statement that appears self-contradictory but may reveal a truth?

The term that describes a statement which seems self-contradictory but may actually express a truth is a paradox. A paradox often prompts deeper reflection on a subject and can reveal a surprising insight that challenges our understanding. For instance, statements such as "less is more" or "the only constant is change" exemplify how contradictions can yield a deeper meaning when examined closely.

In contrast, an oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms together, such as "deafening silence." While it creates a striking image, it doesn’t delve into a deeper truth the way a paradox does.

Irony involves a discrepancy between expectation and reality, often highlighting a difference between what is said and what is meant, but it does not necessarily contain the intrinsic truth-exploring element that a paradox provides.

An allegory is a narrative that uses symbolic figures, actions, and imagery to convey complex ideas and moral messages, often through a story rather than a statement. While allegories convey meaning, they operate differently from the inherent contradiction and potential truth revealed in a paradox.

Thus, a paradox stands out as the best response due to its encapsulation of surface-level contradiction that invites deeper interpretation and understanding.