Entity: OXYMORON
An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory or incongruous words to create a paradoxical effect, such as 'cruel kindness' or 'jumbo shrimp'.
OXYMORON
Etymology
The term 'oxymoron' is derived from the ancient Greek words 'oxus' meaning sharp and 'mōros' meaning dull or foolish.
Definition
An oxymoron is a figure of speech that juxtaposes concepts with opposite meanings within a word or phrase, creating a self-contradictory effect to illustrate a point or reveal a paradox.
Historical Context
The use of oxymorons dates back to ancient Greek literature and has been a common rhetorical device in poetry, literature, and everyday language.
Cultural Significance
Oxymorons are widely used in literature, advertising, and everyday speech to create emphasis, humor, or irony by highlighting the contradictory nature of a situation or concept.
Related Concepts
- Paradox: A statement that may seem contradictory but can be true
- Irony: A contrast between expectations and reality
See Also
A figure of speech that juxtaposes concepts with opposite meanings within a word or phrase, creating a self-contradictory effect to illustrate a point or reveal a paradox.