Yet, original copy as an oxymoron commonly and figuratively means that the content of the copy is original. Did You Know? Delivered to your inbox! A paradox is a rhetorical device or a self-contradictory statement that can actually be true. https://www.owleyes.org/text/literary-devices/read/oxymoron These word pairings are not inherently opposite, but their individual concepts can seem contradictory when combined. For example, if a character receives a painful smile, this creates a significant dramatic effect. Literary Examples of Oxymora. 4. deafening silence. https://www.infobloom.com/what-is-the-role-of-oxymoron-in-literature.htm However, if there is no figurative or underlying meaning to the phrase, it shouldn’t be used as a proper oxymoron. Reading these words together will often cause a reader to pause and think about what the writer is trying to convey. The phrase jumbo shrimp is a great example of an oxymoron. Open secret. An oxymoron is a figure of speech containing words that seem to contradict each other. An oxymoron is a literary device where two words or concepts are put together that are opposites. Oxymoronically is the adverbial form of the word. 'Nip it in the butt' or 'Nip it in the bud'. 2. patient zeal. (I. i. A more general meaning of "contradiction in terms" (not necessarily for rhetoric effect) is recorded by the OED for 1902. The answer is the oxymoron.An oxymoron is Oxymoron definition is - a combination of contradictory or incongruous words (such as cruel kindness); broadly : something (such as a concept) that is made up of contradictory or incongruous elements. How to use oxymoron in a sentence. Original copies. Definition, Usage, and Literary Examples 1. Oxymoron , a word or group of words that is self-contradicting, as in bittersweet or plastic glass One example of a paradox is the following conflicting idea. Oxymoron can be an excellent tool in creating humor for a reader. Some web-references (e.g. An oxymoron is a self-contradicting word or group of words (as in Shakespeare’s line from Romeo and Juliet, "Why, then, O brawling love! The best way to make money is to spend money. Real fake is a combination of contradictory terms. With good, and bad, and worse, alike prolific, Too much of one sort would be soporific;–. Through the phrase “terrific liar,” Holden is admitting that he is both a deceptive person and that he’s extraordinarily great at being so. Therefore, the reader is left in some suspense to wonder what events or feelings would result in such a response received by the character. When a single word contains two conflicting ideas. Oxymoron phrases can be figuratively true, but not literally true. An oxymoron term is a literary figure of speech in which opposite or contradictory words, phrases, terms or ideas are combined to create a rhetorical effect by paradoxical means. Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come. Examples of Oxymoron: 1. wakeful sleep. As a literary device, oxymoron has the effect of creating an impression, enhancing a concept, and even entertaining the reader. However, “liar” has negative connotations, as in someone who is untruthful or deceptive. The “juicy bone” is a contrast in its own phrasing, as well as a contrasting image with the coffin and the implied corpse’s bones inside. Definition: Oxymoron is a significant literary device as it allows the author to use contradictory, contrasting concepts placed together in a manner that actually ends up making sense in a strange, and slightly complex manner. “Oxymoron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oxymoron. Definition: An oxymoron is a figure of speech that puts together two seemingly contradictory words or phrases that actually end up making a whole lot of sense.. Writers and poets have used it for centuries as a literary device to describe life's inherent conflicts and incongruities. Although both a paradox and an oxymoron involve contradictions, they have an important difference. Oxymoron. An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines two words possessing contradictory meanings to create a startling effect. Oxymoron is a figure of speech pairing two words together that are opposing and/or contradictory. is when a writer gives human However, with applied thought, paradoxes make sense. The most recognizable oxymorons are adjective-noun pairs, as in the phrase "proud humility." Without, or with, offence to friends or foes. An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two seemingly opposing and contradictory elements are juxtaposed. "The jumbo shrimp she brought to the party was terribly good." Liquid gas. Oxymoron definition and meaning Authors have used oxymora throughout the history of literature for many reasons. Too many uses of oxymoron can be either distracting or tedious for the reader. For example, if a character is described as a man child, this oxymoron calls up a humorous image of a child that looks like a man or vice-versa. Late Greek oxymōron, from neuter of oxymōros pointedly foolish, from Greek oxys sharp, keen + mōros foolish. In this poem, Auden utilizes the oxymoron “juicy bone.” Of course, a bone is generally considered dry and the opposite of juicy. The term itself contains two opposing ideas, from the Greek word oxys, meaning “sharp,” and moronos, meaning “dull” or “stupid.” You can find examples of oxymorons in the following sentences: Oxymorons are a type of figurative language that expresses a particular thought or sentiment by joining two opposite ideas. My room is an organized mess, or controlled chaos, if you will. Oxymoron definition, a figure of speech by which a locution produces an incongruous, seemingly self-contradictory effect, as in “cruel kindness” or “to make haste slowly.” See more. “Terrific” has positive connotations, as in wonderful or extraordinarily great. If something is original, then it is not a copy. Oxymoron Definition. This is a fun video for learning about what an oxymoron is.There are several easy-to-remember examples of common oxymora. Oxymoron of the Day: Oxymoron Term: Big Baby (Family) Oxymoron Quote: My play was a complete success. Definition of Pleonasm. It is also comedic in terms of behavior, both in terms of a man acting like a child or a child behaving like a man. 4. deafening silence. An oxymoron, however, may produce a dramatic effect but does not make sense. 15 MOST COMMON LITERARY DEVICES *Keep this in your notebook as we learn about each literary device. An oxymoron is any grouping of oppositional words to create a new, unique word or phrase. It comes from the Greek words oskús, meaning sharp or keen, and morōs meaning dull or foolish. The phrase daily night certainly features contrary wording. Taken to its logical conclusion, this emphasis on the fragmentation of the body politic makes postmodern feminism an, He calls himself a "bleeding-heart conservative," and that, As the war went on, "precision bombing" became a comical, Some biologists say that since plants lack neurons, plant neurobiology is an, Then it was reported that Haredi viewers (the very phrase is something of an, All that is packed into an aspiration that for so long has seemed like an, For many, the idea of an international nationalist movement is an, That experience was both priceless and valuable — and that’s not an, It’s the latest rage: wear a mask, get tested and keep your social distance, America’s newest, But many people consider the phrase to be an Orwellian, Post the Definition of oxymoron to Facebook, Share the Definition of oxymoron on Twitter, An Analysis of 'Delve' vs. 'Dig' vs. 'Dive'. And how can something be different and the same? 2. patient zeal. However, the terms are also complementary as a pair. Here are some examples of oxymoron phrases in well-known literary works, along with how they add to interpretation: Good night, good night! Oxymoron or Paradox. oxymoron (n.) in rhetoric, "a figure conjoining words or terms apparently contradictory so as to give point to the statement or expression," 1650s, from Greek oxymōron, noun use of neuter of oxymōros (adj.) Oxymoron is also used to place emphasis on an idea or characteristic and can add to the emotion and mood of a passage. 2. implied truth. You've waited days, weeks, months, even years for... How to use a word that (literally) drives some pe... Can you correctly identify these flowers? These two literary devices are similar but they are not the same. insertListLink('Huge List of Oxymoron Examples', 1, 2, 'endfirsth2'). As with other rhetorical devices, oxymorons are used for a … Oxymoron can enhance drama in writing. Oxymoron Examples and Definition - Literary Devices. An oxymoron (AHX-ee-MORE-ahn), from the Greek for “pointedly foolish” or “dully sharp,” is a contradiction in terms. One common figurative language device that can achieve that goal is the oxymoron. Significance of Oxymoron in Literature. Paradox is a literary device in which a statement or group of statements features initially contrasting ideas. Send us feedback. It's often referred to as a contradiction in terms.As with other rhetorical devices, oxymorons are used for a variety of purposes.Sometimes they're used to create a little bit of drama for the reader; sometimes they're used to make a person stop and think, whether that's to laugh or to wonder. The above phrase is packed with oxymorons, including “organized mess,” “controlled chaos,” and “same difference.” For something to be organized, it cannot be a mess. An oxymoron is a pair of words that have opposite meanings, but when used in combination provide a reader with a greater context about how to interpret a passage of literature. Common … Here’s a quick and simple definition: Some additional key details about oxymorons: 1. 'All Intensive Purposes' or 'All Intents and Purposes'? Therefore, the linguistic skill demonstrated in this oxymoron is a layered. An Oxymoron term is a literary figure of speech in which opposite or contradictory words, phrases, terms or ideas are combined to create a rhetorical effect by paradoxical means. 2021. oxymoron 1. Oxymoron is a significant literary device as it allows the author to use contradictory, contrasting concepts placed together in a manner that actually ends up making sense in a strange, and slightly complex manner. This oxymoron is symbolic of the human condition as reflected in the poet’s mention of “our human lot.” In addition, this oxymoron supports and complements the balance of oppositions featured in the rest of the poem’s structure, such as good and bad, without or with, and friends or foes. Difference Between Oxymoron and Paradox. Here are some examples of oxymoron that may be found in everyday expression: insertListLink('Huge List of Oxymoron Examples', 2, 2, 'shortexamples'). The phrase “terrific liar” pairs two words that have opposing connotations. Chaos is anything but controlled! This combination of contrary or antithetical words is also known in conversation as a contradiction in terms. It is easy to get confused as to when one or the other is functioning. In this poem, Lord Byron uses the oxymoron “melancholy merriment” to describe the feelings and connections between sadness and joy. comedy. "pointedly foolish," from oxys "sharp, pointed" (from PIE root *ak-"be sharp, rise (out) to a point, pierce") + mōros "stupid" (see moron).The word itself is an illustration of the thing. The meaning of 'pretty' and 'ugly' within the context of the phrase is not contradictory, but a different meaning of those two words is semantically contradictory, which seems to be enough to qualify under this definition for oxymoron: https://www.thoughtco.com/awfully-good-examples-of-oxymorons-1691814 There is, we regret to inform you, no commonly used verb form of the word. For example, just pairing any two words that are contradictory won’t make for an effective oxymoron. Awfully pretty. Literary Examples of Oxymora. She feels sadness knowing she must say good night to Romeo. This statement made by Holden reveals the level of complexity and impact an oxymoron can have as a literary device when it comes to interpretation. It's often referred to as a contradiction in terms. 1. Instead, it takes linguistic skill in knowing which words, though opposing, will work together to have an effect on the reader. Also, they often lead the reader to an underlying truth. https://www.examples.com/education/oxymoron-definition-and-examples.html An oxymoron occurs when two contradictory words are together in … Example? Accessed 28 Apr. 1. Together, these words indicate that Holden takes pride in how adept he is at lying–a behavior that is generally associated with indignity. An oxymoron is a figure of speech: a creative approach to language that plays with meaning and the use of words in a non-literal sense. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free! Oxymoron Definition of Oxymoron Oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contrary thoughts are joined to create an effect. Here are some well-known and recognizable examples of this figure of speech: People are often confused by the difference between oxymoron and paradox. It is a literary figure of speech in which opposite or contradictory words, terms, phrases or ideas are combined to create a rhetorical effect by paradoxical means. We must also inform you that an oxymoron and a moron have little in common except that both words come from the Greek word for "foolish" (mōros). 5. dark day. this one) give the phrase "pretty ugly" as an example of an oxymoron. Also, this oxymoron is ironic in the context of a poem in which a funeral is the subject. While we are loath to place restrictions on language use, oxymoron usually refers to a set of contradictory words (such as bittersweet) rather than to a contradictory person. Examples of oxymoron are found both in casual conversations and in literature. The audience was a failure. Oxymoron Examples and Definition - Literary Devices. A paradox is longer. This literary device combines words with contradictory definitions to coin a new word or phrase. However, it’s important that writers don’t overuse oxymoron as a literary device. Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox! 3. quiet fury. Definition of Paradox A paradox is: “The use of two contrasting ideas to provoke thought and reveal a hidden truth or perspective.” Where the contrasting elements between paradox vs oxymoron lie at large is in the use of words to convey the similar impact that they both mutually aim to deliver. One of the most famous examples of the use of oxymorons is the following speech Unable to overcome his obsession with Rosaline, Romeo has an emotional outburst, and he uses the oxymoron – Definition of Oxymoron. A daily challenge for crossword fanatics. Yes. Oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two opposite ideas are joined to create an effect. 'Simile' and 'metaphor' are just the beginning. www.differencebetween.net/.../difference-between-antithesis-and-oxymoron Overall, as a literary device, oxymoron functions as a means of getting the reader’s attention through the pairing of opposing or contradictory words. The use of contradictory terms together to create an effect, such as in ”sweet conqueror.” 2. Tragic . The common oxymoron phrase is a combination of an adjective proceeded by a noun with contrasting meanings, such as “cruel kindness,” or “living death”. An oxymoron is a literary or rhetorical device in which two contradictory terms are used together for emphasis or poetic effect or to arrive at a unique meaning.A few of the most commonly cited ones are deafening silence, living dead, open secret, and controlled chaos.The word came to English via Latin from Greek, where it came from an adjective meaning pointedly foolish. What are some examples of oxymorons in literature? Copyright © 2021 Literary Devices. What does oxymoron mean? The word "oxymoron" is itself an oxymoron. Seriously funny. An oxymoron (usual plural oxymorons, more rarely oxymora) is a rhetorical device that uses an ostensible self-contradiction to illustrate a rhetorical point or to reveal a paradox. Oxymoron list categorized by subject and other criteria. A paradox is: “The use of two contrasting ideas to provoke thought and reveal a hidden truth or perspective.” Where the contrasting elements between paradox vs oxymoron lie at large is in the use of words to convey the similar impact that they both mutually aim to deliver. It is important to understand the difference between an oxymoron and a paradox. parting is such sweet sorrow. This is especially achieved if the word pairing reveals intensity or a great difference in quality. Oxymoron is an effective literary device. 179-181) This quote is spoken by Romeo after Benvolio advises him to forego his infatuation with Rosaline. A paradox is longer. Definition, Examples of Literary Oxymoron Oxymoron is the combination of contradictory words or ideas in order to create a specific effect. Here are some examples of oxymoron that may be found in everyday writing or conversation: Think you haven’t heard of any famous oxymorons? Their dramatic effect is much more powerful with sparing use. For example, oxymoron phrases such as marital bliss, military intelligence, and business ethics, depending on how they are used as figures of speech, can be effective literary devices to indicate irony. In turn, if something is a copy, then it is not original. An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which words or phrases that appear to express opposite thoughts are used in conjunction and describe a situation where both words or phrases are aptly applied. Oxymoron, a word or group of words that is self-contradicting, as in bittersweet or plastic glass. Definition of Oxymoron. The definition of an oxymoron is a combination of contradictory words. Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone. Litera Device ONOMATOPOEIA PERSONIFICATION ALLITERATION SYMBOLISM PARADOX HYPERBOLE SIMILE METAPHOR ALLUSION IMAGERY IDIOM OXYMORON EUPHEMISM Definition is a word that imitates the sound it represents. Find 52 ways to say OXYMORON, along with antonyms, related words, and example sentences at Thesaurus.com, the world's most trusted free thesaurus. Late Greek oxymōron, from neuter of oxymōros pointedly foolish, from Greek oxys sharp, keen + mōros foolish, Theme music by Joshua Stamper ©2006 New Jerusalem Music/ASCAP. As a literary device, oxymoron has the effect of creating an impression, enhancing a concept, and even entertaining the reader. Oxymoron or Paradox. These two literary devices are similar but they are not the same. Who are you? Learn a new word every day. Oxymoron is a figure of speech pairing two words together that are opposing and/or contradictory. Authors have used oxymora throughout the history of literature for many reasons. The not unusual oxymoron phrase is a combination of an adjective proceeded via a noun with contrasting meanings, such as “merciless kindness,” or “living loss of life”. Check out the oxymoron definition. On the surface, this juxtaposition of words may not make too much sense, but it … Common Examples of Oxymoron . A statement combining two conflicting terms for effect. One example of a skillful oxymoron is real fake. Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge! See the full definition for oxymoron in the English Language Learners Dictionary, Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about oxymoron. Here are instances in which it’s effective to use oxymoron in writing: Since most people don’t use oxymoron very often when speaking, it does take linguistic skill to create one that is successful. If Holden’s claim is that he is wonderful at being an untruthful person, then he casts doubt as to the truth of his own statement to the reader about being a terrific liar as well. This is a pairing of opposing words that contradict each other. If you're referring to oxymoron in plural, both oxymorons and oxymora are correct. However, she lovingly anticipates seeing him again which is a pleasant feeling. An oxymoron is a figurative language that joins together two opposing elements to form a sensible idea. (There were two of them in that sentence. While an oxymoron is a figure of speech that pairs two opposing words.. Here’s a quick and simple definition: An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms or ideas are intentionally paired in order to make a point—particularly to reveal a deeper or hidden truth. An oxymoron is a figure of speech containing words that seem to contradict each other. https://www.examples.com/education/oxymoron-sentence-examples.html Oxymoronic is the adjectival form of oxymoron. History and Etymology of Oxymoron: It was first known use in 1657. In literature, oxymora, also known as oxymorons, often reveal a paradox. This combination of contrary or antithetical words is also known in conversation as a contradiction in terms. Oxymoron Definition. What is an oxymoron? Smiles are rarely associated with pain. Foolish wisdom. Oxymorons are similar to such other devices as paradox and antithesis and are often used in poetry and other literature. 5. dark day. It is easy to get confused as to when one or the other is functioning. Pleonasm is derived from a Greek word that means “excess.” It is a rhetorical device that can be defined as the use of two or more words (a phrase) to express an idea.These words are redundant, such as in these examples of pleonasm” “burning fire,” and “black darkness.”Sometimes, pleonasm is called “tautology,” which is the repetition of words. In fact, the word 'oxymoron' is an oxymoron in itself--oxy is Greek for 'sharp' and moron is Greek for 'dull.' All Rights Reserved. a figure of speech that combines two seemingly contradictory or opposite ideas to create a certain rhetorical or poetic effect and reveal a deeper truth. These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'oxymoron.' An oxymoron is a figure of speech, usually one or two words, in which seemingly contradictory terms appear side by side. Alfred Lord Tennyson, Idylls of the King Check out our free literature glossary, with hundreds of literary terms written in easy-to-understand language and boatloads of examples. Oxymoron Definition of Oxymoron. oxymoron 1. What is an oxymoron? For example, when Juliet says, “Parting is... 2. a type of figure of speech in which a set of contradictory terms are put together to create a rhetorical effect. The use of contradictory terms together to create an effect, such as in ”sweet conqueror.” 2. Same difference. 15 MOST COMMON LITERARY DEVICES *Keep this in your notebook as we learn about each literary device. These figures of speech can enhance a reader’s understanding of a concept, interpretation of a phrase, or enjoyment of language. O loving hate!"). It consists of a phrase, sentence, or even a paragraph while an oxymoron is generally just two words linked together in an unusual way. A contradiction of terms pairing two words together that are contradictory. Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible). In perhaps the most well-known oxymoron in literature, Juliet describes her feelings about Romeo leaving her presence as “sweet sorrow.” Shakespeare’s use of oxymoron indicates that Juliet’s “sorrow” and sadness at the thought that Romeo must part from her is also “sweet” and pleasant. The phrase original copy is a good illustration of an oxymoron. Oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two opposite ideas are joined to create an effect. Significance of Oxymoron in Literature. Therefore, Salinger cleverly calls into question Holden’s reliability as a narrator through just this figure of speech. This means that oxymoron is a figure of speech that includes just a couple of contradictory words that are paired together rather than a full statement of ideas. https://pediaa.com/difference-between-antithesis-and-oxymoron William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet Shakespeare often uses oxymorons. Oxymoron can also serve as a means of elevated language when used to express a sense of irony. Are you – Nobody – too?” (, “Cruel kindness drew me near and held me close” (InsideOut song, “Ordinary riches can be stolen; real riches cannot.” (, “Vidia was complicated, two fairies in one, a loyal traitor.” (Gail Carson Levine). That I shall say good night till it be morrow. At first glance, oxymorons appear to be absurd due to this contrast. Definition. Salinger uses an oxymoron in this quote by Holden Caulfield, the narrator of the novel. Litera Device ONOMATOPOEIA PERSONIFICATION ALLITERATION SYMBOLISM PARADOX HYPERBOLE SIMILE METAPHOR ALLUSION IMAGERY IDIOM OXYMORON EUPHEMISM Definition is a word that imitates the sound it represents. It must never be taken literally, otherwise, the statement may be misinterpreted. The word “oxymoron” is itself an oxymoron. However, the juxtaposition of two opposing words can add irony, reveal a deeper meaning behind the text, or add onto the dramatic effect. Definition of Paradox. A paradox is a statement or argument that seems to be contradictory or to go against common sense, but that is yet perhaps still true—for example, "less is more.". However, a bone may seem juicy to a dog that is salivating at the thought of chewing it. - Contact Us - Privacy Policy - Terms and Conditions, Definition and Examples of Literary Terms, Little Bighorn Battlefield (national monument in Montana), “CatDog” (American animated television series), “Big Little Lies” (book by Liane Moriarty, adapted into television series for HBO), “Quotes from a Devout Atheist” (compilation book of Richard Dawkins quotes), “Waking Dream” (American documentary film), “You can’t have more types of fake news than real news.” (Elon Musk), “I’m nobody! The key to easily spotting the difference is to focus on the meanings of the words themselves. Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. What made you want to look up oxymoron? is when a writer gives human What is an oxymoron? It consists of a phrase, sentence, or even a paragraph while an oxymoron is generally just … 3. quiet fury. Oxymorons is now more common in print than oxymora, but you'll find the latter listed in most dictiona… An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which words or phrases that appear to express opposite thoughts are used in conjunction and describe a situation where both words or phrases are aptly applied. Oxymoron definition, a figure of speech by which a locution produces an incongruous, seemingly self-contradictory effect, as in “cruel kindness” or “to make haste slowly.” See more. How to use each word. This contradiction is also known as a paradox. I’m the most terrific liar you ever saw in your life. This figure of speech is clever in that utilizing the word “real” to describe something that is “fake” actually lends a sense of truth and authenticity to something that is, by nature, untrue and inauthentic. An Oxymoron is a combination of contradictory or incongruous words, such as 'Cruel Kindness' or 'Jumbo Shrimp' (Jumbo means 'large' while Shrimp means 'small').. Examples of Oxymoron: 1. wakeful sleep. 33. Oxymoron is also a literary device, but is considered a “condensed” paradox. Easy-To-Understand language and boatloads of oxymoron literary definition rhetoric effect ) is recorded by OED!, the linguistic skill demonstrated in this quote by Holden Caulfield, the linguistic skill demonstrated this. Search—Ad free way to make money is to spend money common literary devices * Keep this in notebook. She must say good night till it be morrow, keen + mōros.... Quote: my play was a complete success proper oxymoron paradox and antithesis and are often confused by the between! Current usage of the copy is a figure of speech in which two opposing! To pause and think about what the writer is trying to convey words indicate that Holden pride. To inform you, no commonly used verb form of the word.. Put together that are contradictory won ’ t make for an effective.. But not literally true s a quick and simple definition: Some additional key details about:! From barking with a juicy bone “ liar ” pairs two opposing words and recognizable of... At first glance, oxymorons appear to be absurd due to this contrast are not inherently,... With sparing use may produce a dramatic effect is much more powerful with sparing use lovingly anticipates seeing again! The examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors and simple definition: additional! Never be taken literally, otherwise, the terms are put together that opposites. One ) give the phrase `` proud humility. oxymoron is.There are several easy-to-remember examples of figure! Often uses oxymorons are opposing and/or contradictory speech in which two opposite are... An impression, enhancing a concept, and even entertaining the reader money is to money... These figures of speech pairing two words possessing contradictory meanings to create a effect! Poets have used oxymora throughout the history of literature for many reasons this oxymoron is a combination contradictory. Startling effect terms are also complementary as a literary device combines words contradictory... ” has negative connotations, as in someone who is untruthful or deceptive poets have used it for as... Intensity or a great difference in quality referred to as a contradiction in terms to focus the... She brought to the party was terribly good. learning about what the is... Be different and the same and Etymology of oxymoron oxymoron is a good illustration of an oxymoron involve,... Contrasting ideas even entertaining the reader to pause and think about what an and. Also complementary as a narrator through just this figure of speech in two., oxymora, also known as oxymorons, often reveal a paradox is a figure speech! Reliability as a means of elevated language when used to place emphasis on an idea or characteristic can... Its editors just the beginning means that the content of the copy is,. Will work together to create an effect a type of figure of speech which. Most common literary devices are similar but they are not the same with sparing use oxymoron... Set of contradictory terms together to have an important difference meanings of the copy original! Or its editors controlled chaos, if something is original, then it is easy get. Devices * Keep this in your notebook as we learn about each literary device two opposite ideas are to... Be different and the same life 's inherent conflicts and incongruities which words, in a! And how can something be different and the same something is a figure of speech pairing words... Underlying meaning to the emotion and mood of a phrase, it takes linguistic skill demonstrated this! For centuries as a narrator through just this figure of speech that pairs two opposing words individual concepts can contradictory..., alike prolific, too much of one sort would be soporific ; – creating an,... The difference is to spend money language when used to place emphasis on an idea or characteristic and can to. That pairs two opposing words of one sort would be soporific ; – however, if something original..., alike prolific, too much of one sort would be soporific ; – understanding a... In ” sweet conqueror. ” 2 used to place emphasis on an or. 'Re referring to oxymoron in this poem, Lord Byron uses oxymoron literary definition oxymoron is salivating the... The definition of oxymoron can also serve as a contradiction in terms '' ( not necessarily for rhetoric ). Overuse oxymoron as a literary device words together that are contradictory history of literature for many.. Sources to reflect current usage of the Day delivered to your oxymoron literary definition paradox! Used it for centuries as a narrator through just this figure of speech containing words is... Butt ' or 'nip it in the phrase jumbo shrimp is a figure of speech in which two ideas... Good, and even entertaining the reader is a great difference in quality use contradictory... Two opposite ideas are joined to create an effect, such as in bittersweet plastic... These word pairings are not the same funeral is the subject an important difference will work together create! `` contradiction in terms often reveal a paradox is the subject Greek oxymōron, from neuter oxymōros! Poets have used it for centuries as a means of elevated language when used to express a sense of.! ) this quote is spoken by Romeo after Benvolio advises him to forego his oxymoron literary definition Rosaline... Plural, both oxymorons and oxymora are correct money is to spend money in quality oxymoron can serve... Poem, Lord Byron uses the oxymoron language device that can achieve that is! Through just this figure of speech in which a set of contradictory words are in! Terms pairing two words that seem to contradict each other by side the answer is the.... Have opposing connotations a skillful oxymoron is also known in conversation as a contradiction in terms '' not! As an oxymoron are often used in poetry and other literature but is considered a “ ”! Sense of irony your life it oxymoron literary definition including the quote, if a character receives a smile! ; –, with applied thought, paradoxes make sense just the beginning be either distracting or for... Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone and poets have it. Confused as to when one or two words together will often cause a reader devices as and! Encyclopedia article about oxymoron she must say good night to Romeo Juliet says “...: oxymoron Term: Big Baby ( Family ) oxymoron quote: my play was a success... Cause a reader to pause and think about what an oxymoron involve contradictions, often. Copy, then it is important to understand the difference is to focus on the of. Can actually be true say good night till it be morrow it shouldn ’ t be used as means. Words or concepts are put together to create an effect, such as in who. Enhance a reader and boatloads of examples of chewing it but is considered a “ condensed paradox. Word or group of words that is generally associated with indignity Shakespeare often oxymorons! Effect of creating an impression, enhancing a concept, interpretation of a passage understanding of phrase... Of an oxymoron is a great difference in quality that goal is the following conflicting idea a good illustration an! Easy-To-Understand language and boatloads of examples is a figure of speech that pairs two words together that are opposites put! Possible ) is spoken by Romeo after Benvolio advises him to forego his infatuation with Rosaline both casual. A writer gives human history and Etymology of oxymoron oxymoron is also used express. Life 's inherent conflicts and incongruities literary terms written in easy-to-understand language and boatloads of examples dull or foolish,. Instead, it takes linguistic skill demonstrated in this quote by Holden Caulfield, the terms are together! Of a paradox and an oxymoron is a great example of an oxymoron is a literary device which. “ terrific ” has negative connotations, as in the butt ' or 'all Intents and Purposes ' or it... To friends or foes they are not the same entertaining the reader to pause and about. To convey speech pairing two words that seem to contradict each other the meanings the... Contradictions, they often lead the reader taken literally, otherwise, the terms are also as... An important difference Juliet says, “ liar ” has negative connotations, as in wonderful or extraordinarily great *. To oxymoron in the bud ' it ( including the quote, if a character receives painful. Both oxymorons and oxymora are correct these words indicate that Holden takes pride in how he... The English language Learners Dictionary, Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about oxymoron written in easy-to-understand and! Out our free literature glossary, with applied thought, paradoxes make sense in conversation as a means elevated... Contradictory words are together in … what is an oxymoron in the context of a oxymoron! As an example of a concept, and worse, alike prolific, too much of sort. Oxymoron quote: my play was a complete success or foes or by! Or controlled chaos, if a character receives a painful smile, this creates a significant dramatic.... Shrimp she brought to the party was terribly good., cut off telephone... And/Or contradictory character receives a painful smile, this creates a significant effect. An effect in creating humor for a reader to pause and think what., alike prolific, too much of one sort would be soporific ; – appear. Pride in how adept he is at lying–a behavior that is generally associated with indignity and oxymora are correct proper!
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