Textual conflict describes how much inference an argument requires. Importance describes its stakes. A minor numerical disagreement can be direct; a foundational claim can still depend on interpretation.

Direct contradiction

The quoted passages make incompatible claims about the same subject under the same conditions. Little additional inference is needed.

Interpretive tension

The passages pull in different directions, but the conflict depends on how their wording, scope, or narrative context is read.

Weak tension

The alleged conflict needs substantial assumptions, such as treating an omission as a denial or figurative language as literal.

Weak contradiction

The supplied passages do not establish incompatible claims. Different events, meanings, or conditions may account for the difference.

Reading order weighs conflict and importance together. It is not a certainty score. Unreviewed or changed articles carry no assessment until reviewed.