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Oxymoron - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory or opposing words to create a striking effect, such as deafening silence or bittersweet. It highlights contrasts in meaning.

oxymoron

/ˌɑːk.siˈmɔːr.ɑːn/ /ˌɒk.sɪˈmɔː.rɒn/

Definition:

A figure of speech combining contradictory terms for effect, such as "deafening silence."

Synonyms:

contradiction, paradox, incongruity

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

consistency, harmony

Common Collocations:

bitter sweet, living death, virtual reality, original copy

Derivatives:

oxymoronic, oxymoronically

Usage Tips:

Use oxymoron to highlight contrasts or create dramatic effect in writing or speech.

Common Phrases:

bittersweet symphony, alone together, clearly confused

Etymology:

From Greek "oxys" (sharp) and "moros" (dull), meaning pointedly foolish or cleverly contradictory.

Examples:

  • 1. The phrase "jumbo shrimp" is a classic oxymoron.
  • 2. Her description of the vacation as "awfully good" was an oxymoron.
  • 3. The term "silent scream" is a powerful oxymoron in poetry.
  • 4. He called the meeting a "organized chaos," which felt like an oxymoron.

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