How to Use an Oxymoron (Explanation, with Examples)

What is an oxymoron?

Each of the above phrases pairs words that appear to contradict each other. If that sounds familiar, you’ve met an oxymoron.

If this blatant subtlety (cough) wasn’t obvious enough — we’re talking about oxymorons. Let’s get surface-deep, literary style.

The meaning of oxymoron

“[oxymoron] A figure conjoining words or terms apparently contradictory so as to give point to the statement or expression,” 1650s, from Greek oxymōron [oxys “sharp, pointed” + mōros “stupid”]. The word itself is an illustration of the thing.

In plain words, an oxymoron is a literary technique that uses clashing or opposing words to add emphasis, humour, and style to writing.

Oxymoron vs. paradox vs. juxtaposition

A paradox is a larger self-contradictory idea often revealing deeper insight. Oxymorons are shorter — typically at the word/phrase level. Juxtaposition places elements side-by-side to highlight contrast or similarity; Dickens' famous opening line is an example:

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...

Juxtaposition can be thematic and large-scale; oxymorons are compact, word-level contradictions used for rhetorical effect.

Common examples of oxymorons

Oxymorons frequently appear in everyday speech:

• jumbo shrimp / civil war
• deafening silence
• only choice / only option
• bittersweet
• alone together
• exact estimate
• awfully good
• cruel kindness
• clearly misunderstood
• unbiased opinion
• same difference
• wise fool