Word
oxymoron
Meanings
A phrase that combines two words with opposite or contradictory meanings for effect.
Definition
An oxymoron is a phrase that combines two opposite or contradictory words.
An oxymoron is a figure of speech that puts two words with opposite meanings next to each other. Writers and speakers use it to create a striking effect, add humor, or express a complex idea. Common examples include phrases like “deafening silence” or “bittersweet moment.”
Examples
- “Deafening silence” is a classic oxymoron.
- The writer used an oxymoron to show how she felt both happy and sad.
- Calling it “organized chaos” is an oxymoron, but it fits the situation.
- He laughed at the oxymoron “seriously funny.”
Common mistake
Learners often confuse an oxymoron (two contradictory words) with a paradox (a whole idea or statement that seems contradictory).
More at B2 level
- fascism Fascism is an extreme right-wing political system with a powerful dictator, strong nationalism, and…
- gaslighting Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that makes someone doubt their own memory, judg…
- narcissist A narcissist is someone who is excessively self-centered and craves admiration while showing little…
- niche A niche is a specialized place, role, or market that suits a particular person or product.
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
More nouns
- fascism Fascism is an extreme right-wing political system with a powerful dictator, strong nationalism, and…
- gaslighting Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that makes someone doubt their own memory, judg…
- narcissist A narcissist is someone who is excessively self-centered and craves admiration while showing little…
- empathy Empathy is the ability to understand and share another person’s feelings.
- metaphor A metaphor is a way of describing something by saying it is something else to create a clear image …