Amplification Definition and Examples in Rhetoric, Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia, M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester, B.A., English, State University of New York. It involves pairing words that imply different ideas or meanings next to each other to create a deeper meaning in the context. Wills argues that use of the term "oxymoron" should remain reserved for the conscious use of contradiction to express something that is "surprisingly true". As rhetorical devices, oxymorons have been used in many different mediums from political speeches to novels to stage plays. This is a pairing of opposing words that contradict each other. the word nascar is an oxymoron 03 Jun. The most commonly-used example of an oxymoron is 'jumbo shrimp,' as a shrimp is small by definition and therefore cannot be jumbo. An oxymoron can seem absurd yet make perfect sense at the same time. Together, these words indicate that Holden takes pride in how adept he is at lyinga behavior that is generally associated with indignity. In other words, oxymorons are contradictive words or phrases used intentionally to create an effect. the word nascar is an oxymoron. oxymoron: 1 n conjoining contradictory terms (as in `deafening silence') Type of: figure , figure of speech , image , trope language used in a figurative or nonliteral sense Oxymorons are often used poetically as a way of bringing out a fresh meaning in a word or phrase. The dictionary defines an oxymoron as a "wittily paradoxical turn of phrase that appeals to 'unconscious responses' instead of rational examinations". By that measure, no crisis is unimportant or minor. This famous quotation from Shakespeares Romeo and Juliet contains an equally famous oxymoron. Ask questions; get answers. The phrase terrific liar pairs two words that have opposing connotations. Slow and steady wins the race. 1481-82). Oxymoron of the Day Favorite Oxymoron Terms Calm Storm (Science) Casual Chic (Fashion) Cat fish (Science) Chili (Food) The defining characteristic of an oxymoron is combining words or phrases that have opposite meanings. One classic example of the use of oxymorons in English literature can be found in this example from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, where Romeo strings together thirteen in a row: O brawling love! Oxymoron: a combination of contradictory words. The following is a list for kids who too are struggling to get the correct contradictory set of words together for an assignment or project. It makes more sense when you read the thrift in spendthrift as a noun that can refer to the savings that one has accumulated through the careful management of money. However, its important that writers dont overuse oxymoron as a literary device. The Greek compound word oksmron, which would correspond to the Latin formation, does not seem to appear in any known Ancient Greek works prior to the formation of the Latin term.[8]. Our new student and parent forum, at ExpertHub.PrepScholar.com, allow you to interact with your peers and the PrepScholar staff. Delivered to your inbox! "[21], Examples popularized by comedian George Carlin in 1975 include "military intelligence" (a play on the lexical meanings of the term "intelligence", implying that "military" inherently excludes the presence of "intelligence") and "business ethics" (similarly implying that the mutual exclusion of the two terms is evident or commonly understood rather than the partisan anti-corporate position). Supermarket was coined by adding the prefix super- (higher in quantity, quality, or degree) to the noun market for a large store that carried a vast assortment of groceries and other household goods. An oxymoron refers to a word, phrase, or use of language that seems to directly contradict itself, and it is believed to come from the Greek ox(s), sharp, andmrs, dull. So the word for oxymoron actuallyisan oxymoron in Greek! Like other kinds of figurative language, oxymorons (or oxymora) are often found in literature. Writers and poets have used it for centuries as a literary device to describe life's inherent conflicts and incongruities. the word nascar is an oxymoron. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Who are you? With the first oxymoron,"perfect imperfections," the speaker is making it clear that his lovers flaws are ultimately what make her the perfect partner for him. Oxymoron phrases can be figuratively true, but not literally true. If something is original,then it is not a copy. | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | l | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z A B C cafeteria food calculated error calculated risk calculated spontaneity This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Writing, grammar, and communication tips for your inbox. Thus the word oxymoron is itself an oxymoron. When someone says a phrase such as "clearly confused," the speaker is finding a new way to describe that individual or object. Sometimes people aren't trying to make a profound statement when they use oxymorons. Write with Grammarly. Writers and poets have used it for centuries as a literary device to describe life's inherent conflicts and incongruities. It might sound like a schoolyard insult, but it's not. hbspt.cta.load(360031, '4efd5fbd-40d7-4b12-8674-6c4f312edd05', {}); Have any questions about this article or other topics? Oxymoronic is the adjectival form of oxymoron. Check out the oxymoron definition. O anything of nothing first create! Common examples of oxymorons include cruel kindness, open secret, and jumbo shrimp . The N Word is a figure of speech - a racist and hateful figure of speech. When a single word contains two conflicting ideas. Great Big List of Beautiful and Useless Words, Vol. The oxymoron is a figure of speech that adds depth and technique to literary works. Paired together, however, they create a deeper meaning. Nordquist, Richard. [23], Other examples include "honest politician", "act naturally", "affordable caviar" (1993),[24] "happily married" and "Microsoft Works" (2000).[25]. Highlighting their differences accentuates their meaning and the words come across stronger. the word nascar is an oxymoronhow to check how many warnings you have on roblox. They are known as oxymora, and in this article, you will find an oxymoron list, which will give you some really good and yet, funny oxymora so that you can understand the concept better. This oxymoron is symbolic of the human condition as reflected in the poets mention of our human lot. In addition, this oxymoron supports and complements the balance of oppositions featured in the rest of the poems structure, such as good and bad, without or with, and friends or foes. Two involve the palindrome, two involve the oxymoron, and one involves onomatopoeia. Oxymoron can enhance drama in writing. up next, we take a look at oxymoron examples in sentences from literature and pop culture. For example, in Chinese, compounds like (man and woman, male and female, gender), (yin and yang), (good and evil, morality) are used to indicate couples, ranges, or the trait that these are extremes of. The phrase original copyis a good illustration of an oxymoron. One example of this is when Oscar Wilde comically reflected on the fact that he "can resist anything, except temptation.". Such a phrase shows that an object can have two different qualities at once, making it a subject for study and analysis. The most common type of oxymoron is an adjective followed by a noun. If Holdens 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. One goose, two geese. The word oxymoron is itself an oxymoron; in Greek, oxy- means "sharp" or "wise," while moros means "foolish." Is an oxymoron always 2 words? Lets get this one out of the way. "with the hinder part before", compare hysteron proteron, "upside-down", "head over heels", "ass-backwards" etc. Combining the idea of before and after leads to a word that describes something that makes so little sense that it leaves you shaking your head. The humour derives from implying that an assumption (which might otherwise be expected to be controversial or at least non-evident) is so obvious as to be part of the lexicon. But once you become fluent in English, it's easy to recognize such oxymorons for the figures of speech that they are. [9] It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. "beggarly riches" (John Donne),[14] The word is said to be originated from the Greek words, oxy, meaning 'sharp, pointed . Oxymorons present an ideal opportunity to be clever or funny. See how other students and parents are navigating high school, college, and the college admissions process. Crustacean. In other words, oxymorons are contradictive words or phrases used intentionally to create an effect. . Awfully good, bittersweet, same difference, and original copy are a few oxymoron examples. The scope of oxymorons, however, is limited only to the scope of the individual words used. 2001 - 2023 Oxymoron.info - All rights reserved. 1828 Words at Play Internal Conflict: The One-Word Oxymoron When a single word contains two conflicting ideas. Grammarly can check your spelling and save you from grammar and punctuation mistakes. Find 52 ways to say OXYMORON, along with antonyms, related words, and example sentences at Thesaurus.com, the world's most trusted free thesaurus. An oxymoron is a literary device combining oppositional words to create a unique word or phrase. What is the difference between oxymoron and paradox? An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory words with opposing meanings, like old news, deafening silence, or organized chaos. Oxymorons may seem illogical at first, but in context they usually make sense. However, a bone may seem juicy to a dog that is salivating at the thought of chewing it. Now, don't let your brain start to hurt just yetup next, we take a look at oxymoron examples in sentences from literature and pop culture. Oxymoronically is the adverbial form of the word. Oxymoron is also a literary device, but is considered a condensed paradox. That makes oxymorons a serious option in word choice. The word oxymoron is an ancient Greek word, which translates most closely to something like sharply dull or cleverly stupid. In other words, the oxymoron definition is itself an oxymoron. 6 Critically Acclaimed Female Authors You Should Read Before You Die, These Favorite Childrens Book Quotes Will Take You Back In Time, Survival Books Fiction: 5 Fascinating Tales to Read in 2021, Must Read Fiction Books: 5 Essential Literature Classics, Non Fiction War Books: 5 Essential True Stories About War and Peace, Fiction Books for 2nd Graders: 5 Essentials to Add to your Shelves. Or plastic silverware. Check out the funniest accidental, and intentional, malapropism examples as well. That makes oxymorons a serious option in, is fairly neutralit can be calm or tense, depending on the context. In this poem, Auden utilizes the oxymoron juicy bone. Of course, a bone is generally considered dry and the opposite of juicy. An Oxymoron is a combination of contradictory or incongruous words, such as 'Cruel Kindness' or 'Jumbo Shrimp' All rights reserved. These 50+ oxymoron examples are listed alphabetically and arranged by category (i.e., the type of oxymoron word combination). mars 15, 2021 . You might say that they juxtapose each other, which means, when placed close together, they create an. The word 'Oxymoron' is originally derived from the Greek elements: oxy = sharp and moros (moron) = dull (foolish). Misshapen chaos of well-seeming forms! Our vetted tutor database includes a range of experienced educators who can help you polish an essay for English or explain how derivatives work for Calculus. by William Shakespeare, wherein combining things that contrast is an ongoing theme.) Get Free Guides to Boost Your SAT/ACT Score, our in-depth guide to the 31 literary devices you must know. Im the most terrific liar you ever saw in your life. "pointedly foolish," from oxys "sharp, pointed" (from PIE root *ak- "be sharp, rise (out) to a point, pierce") + mros "stupid" (see moron ). One example of a paradox is the following conflicting idea. Indeed, oxymorons are often used to make fun of an idea, person, or . An oxymoron is a figure of speech pairing two antithetical or contradictory concepts. Exactly! tautology, noun : needless or meaningless repetition in close succession of an idea, statement, or word. Banksy, Wall and Piece. "Saturday Night Live transcripts." There is, we regret to inform you, no commonly used verb form of the word. Yet, original copy as an oxymoron commonly and figuratively means that the content of the copy is original. 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. Oxymoron is a figure of speech pairing two words together that are opposing and/or contradictory. J. R. R. Tolkien interpreted his own surname as derived from the Low German equivalent of dull-keen (High German toll-khn) which would be a literal equivalent of Greek oxy-moron. Think jumbo shrimp. Posted at 14:06h in does jetblue have power outlets by white stuff on frozen chicken. are combined to create a rhetorical effect by paradoxical means. An oxymoron is a phrase made of two or more words that actually have opposite meanings. ), so this article explains everything you need to know. Too many uses of oxymoron can be either distracting or tedious for the reader. Grammarly helps you communicate confidently. oxymoron definition: 1. two words or phrases used together that have, or seem to have, opposite meanings: 2. two words. That noun combines sophos, the Greek adjective meaning wise, with its intellectual opposite mros, meaning foolish.. From 5th century Latin oxymoron, from Ancient Greek (oxus, "sharp") (English oxy-, as in oxygen) + (mros, "dull") (English moron ("stupid person")).Literally "sharp-dull", itself an oxymoron, hence autological; compare sophomore (literally "wise fool"), influenced by similar analysis.The compound form * (oxumron) is not found in the extant Greek . n, -mor- / grammar a phrase or statement that seems to say two opposite things, as in " jumbo shrimp " and " agree to disagree " (Definition of oxymoron from the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary Cambridge University Press) Examples of oxymoron oxymoron We recommend our users to update the browser. When a single word contains two conflicting ideas. Copyright 2023 Literary Devices. Check out Tutorbase! 100 Awfully Good Examples of Oxymorons. The reader must momentarily pause to comprehend and process the meaningin other words, oxymorons make the reader think. Alfred, Lord Tennyson, Idylls of the King, Parting is such sweet sorrow. The word combines two of the five taste sensations, the others being salty, sour, and savory (umami). The dictionary defines an oxymoron as a wittily paradoxical turn of phrase that appeals to unconscious responses instead of rational examinations. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. O loving hate!"). 309 likes. There is nothing really contradictory about jumbo shrimp, for examplea shrimp is a crustacean that comes in a variety of sizes and happens to have another sense meaning a small thing. Others, such as guest host or plastic glass, depend on how much credence you give to the idea of their components being opposites.

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