Why use oxymorons

Oxymoron phrases can be figuratively true, but not literally true. Reading these words together will often cause a reader to pause and think about what the writer is trying to convey. The phrase daily night certainly features contrary wording. Instead, it takes linguistic skill in knowing which words, though opposing, will work together to have an effect on the reader.

One example of a skillful oxymoron is real fake. Therefore, the linguistic skill demonstrated in this oxymoron is a layered. Real fake is a combination of contradictory terms. However, the terms are also complementary as a pair. Oxymoron can enhance drama in writing. This is especially achieved if the word pairing reveals intensity or a great difference in quality. For example, if a character receives a painful smile, this creates a significant dramatic effect.

Smiles are rarely associated with pain. Therefore, the reader is left in some suspense to wonder what events or feelings would result in such a response received by the character. Too many uses of oxymoron can be either distracting or tedious for the reader. Their dramatic effect is much more powerful with sparing use. March 29, Updated 19 May, If you had to explain what an oxymoron is, what would you say? Big baby This is an oxymoron because all babies are small.

Organised mess How can a mess be organised? Open secret If something is a secret, no one else is supposed to know about it. I found this helpful I did not find this helpful. Can you guess where these English words originate? Send us feedback. See more words from the same year. Accessed 12 Nov. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Log in Sign Up. Save Word. Essential Meaning of oxymoron. Full Definition of oxymoron. Frequently Asked Questions About oxymoron Can a person be an oxymoron? What is the difference between oxymoron and paradox? Examples of oxymoron in a Sentence The phrase "Broadway rock musical" is an oxymoron. Broadway doesn't have the nerve to let the really hard stuff in the house. First Known Use of oxymoron , in the meaning defined above.

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