What Is Oxymoron? – Meaning and Definition

Language has the enchanting means of combining words for a compelling effect. One such figure of speech is the oxymoron. Maybe you have heard word combinations such as “bittersweet” or “deafening silence”. They are not errors; instead, they are deliberate choices to impart contrasting shades to meaning. This article will cover the oxymoron meaning and definition, then delve into the reasons for its use by writers, followed by an oxymoron list for reference.

What Is Oxymoron?: Meaning and Definition

The term oxymoron is derived from Greek, combining “oxys” (sharp) and “moros” (foolish). Put together, it literally means “sharp foolishness,” which itself is an oxymoron!

Definition:

An oxymoron is a phrase that brings together two words whose meanings are opposite or contradictory to create a special or thought-invoking expression.

In lay language, an oxymoron puts together two ideas that are unlike and creates a piercing effect.

Why Do Writers Put Oxymorons to Use?

Depending on their aesthetics, writers, poets, or speakers may place oxymorons to do any number of things:

The dramatization of an event-The contrast grabs attention, and the reader has to pause.

The expression of very deep emotions-Some feelings, such as being bittersweet tears, cannot be described by a single word.

For irony or laughter-Having oxymorons highlights the irony present in life.

To make the language somewhat unforgettable-Somewhat weird phrases seem to remain engrained in one's mind.

List of Oxymoron Examples

Some common oxymoron examples might be of help for recognition and include the following:

Bittersweet

Deafening silence

Living dead

Jumbo shrimp

Awfully good

Alone together

Clearly confused

Dark light

Act naturally

Pretty ugly

Original copy

Virtual reality

Passive-aggressive

Only choice

True myth

Two opposites joining to form expressions we use every day: these oxymoron examples are indicative.

In Literature, Oxymorons

For centuries, oxymorons have been employed by famous writers. For example:

William Shakespeare was known for using oxymorons in his plays. In Romeo and Juliet, Juliet says:

“Parting is such sweet sorrow.”

It means that it is painful to say goodbye while somehow still having the pleasure of sorrowful joy.

Alexander Pope used an oxymoron in his poetry in the phrase: "damn with faint praise.

Oxymorons enrich literature by asserting the oneness of opposites.

Oxymoron vs. Paradox

An oxymoron is often confused with paradox. Here is the difference between the two:

Oxymoron → Two opposite words joined together (e.g., living dead).

Paradox → A longer statement that is seemingly contradictory but conveys a truth (e.g., "The beginning of the end.").

Hence, oxymorons are mostly brief pairings of words, while paradoxes are broad statements most often expressed in sentence form.

Oxymorons in Daily Life

Because these are oxymorons, they drift in and out of poetry; for they are found in our day-to-day speech, advertisements, and media. Some instances of oxymorons in advertising include: "seriously funny" (to grab the reader's attention). Common speech would include: "open secret" and "only choice." Music lyrics are very often filled with oxymorons used by the artist to describe feelings that are as much happy as sad.

How To Spot an Oxymoron

Here's a short way to identify an oxymoron:

Two words= an oxymoron.

If the two words contradict one another.

If the phrase expresses some new interesting or ironic concept.

For example:

"Clearly confused" — opposite: "clear" and "confused," yet combined they describe a state many people tend to feel.

Fun Exercise: Create Your Own Oxymorons

Try making some oxymorons! Opposite words go together and sound beautiful:

Silent scream

Organized chaos

Definite maybe

Cruel kindness

This would be a nice classroom activity for students learning about figures of speech.

Conclusion

Oxymoron is a figure of speech combining two words of opposite meaning for effect.

Oxymorons serve to dramatize, provide irony, or paint an emotional picture.

Bitter sweet, deafening silence, pretty ugly, and jumbo shrimp, to name a few from the list of oxymorons.

Though both deal with contradictions, oxymorons are distinct from paradoxes.

All types of oxymorons mean that language is not crisp; it mirrors humanly intricate thoughts and feelings. By joining opposites, oxymorons give words a new, everlasting twist.

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Article Author

Zarghoona Abid Khan

Zarghoona Abid Khan is an experienced and passionate English instructor at Bambinos.live. She is dedicated to empowering students through effective teaching methodologies. Zarghoona is a graduate in English literature and a certified TEYL instructor. She possesses the knowledge and expertise to foster an engaging learning environment. Zarghoona efficiently teaches reading, writing, and English as a second language. She fosters a stimulating and inclusive learning environment and implements innovative approaches to enhance student engagement. Additionally, she utilizes various teaching resources and technologies effectively.

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