We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. One goose, two geese. While an oxymoron is the combination of two contradictory/opposite words in a single sentence, a paradox is an entire phrase/sentence that appears contradictory but, upon further investigation, could be true or plausible. Saying that a picture or a scene is "painfully beautiful" calls attention to the speaker and the object of inquiry. See how other students and parents are navigating high school, college, and the college admissions process. We have no choice., Mark Twain: It usually takes more than three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech., Samuel Goldwyn: A verbal contract isnt worth the paper its written on.. However, its important that writers dont overuse oxymoron as a literary device. Im the most terrific liar you ever saw in your life. This figure of speech is clever in that utilizing the word real to describe something that is fake actually lends a sense of truth and authenticity to something that is, by nature, untrue and inauthentic. Oxymorons combine contradictory words, but paradoxes combine contradictory ideas. An oxymoron (plurals: oxymorons and oxymora) is a figure of speech that juxtaposes concepts with opposite meanings within a word or in a phrase that is a self-contradiction. Here are some well-known and recognizable examples of this figure of speech: People are often confused by the difference between oxymoron and paradox. An oxymoron (plurals: oxymorons and oxymora) is a figure of speech that juxtaposes concepts with opposite meanings within a word or in a phrase that is a self-contradiction. When someone says a phrase such as "clearly confused," the speaker is finding a new way to describe that individual or object. Big baby. (One, in particular, is in. The main difference between an oxymoron and a paradox is that oxymorons use contradictory words whereas paradoxes use contradictory ideas. All babies can be childish but, for some reason, adding the word 'big' communicates that the person you are talking about is even more childish than a regular-sized . Meghan graduated from Marist College with a Bachelor of Arts in English in 2017; her creative nonfiction piece Anticipation was published in the Spring 2017 issue of Angles literary magazine. This is a pairing of opposing words that contradict each other. Grammarly helps you communicate confidently The phrase original copyis a good illustration of an oxymoron. up next, we take a look at oxymoron examples in sentences from literature and pop culture. "100 Awfully Good Examples of Oxymorons." Think jumbo shrimp. Old news is an everyday example of an oxymoron, as news is meant to be current. The scope of oxymorons, however, is limited only to the scope of the individual words used. "conventionally unconventional", "tortuous spontaneity" (Henry James)[17] document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Our site includes quite a bit of content, so if you're having an issue finding what you're looking for, go on ahead and use that search feature there! This stanza, from Lord Tennysons retelling of the tale of King Arthur, usesseveral oxymorons for poetic effect and as a way to emphasize the conundrum that Lancelot, Arthurs most loyal knight and friend, finds himself in. This five puzzle package is a collection of the five puzzles that I've written on the palindrome, the oxymoron, and the onomatopoeia figures of speech. William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet, A damned saint, an honorable villain! The fascinating story behind many people's favori Can you handle the (barometric) pressure? The violent display ultimately led to thousands of deaths and injuries. Ask below and we'll reply! Who Are The Most Romantic Literary Figures of All Time? The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points, How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer, Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests. hbspt.cta.load(360031, '4efd5fbd-40d7-4b12-8674-6c4f312edd05', {}); Have any questions about this article or other topics? Mom, and True Lies.. An oxymoron is a figure of speech containing words that seem to contradict each other. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), Palindrome Examples: Words and Phrases That Are the Same Backwards and Forwards, The Most Confusing Rules in the Grammar World, Pangram Examples Every Word Lover Will Appreciate, Stock Your Spring Closet with 12 Dresses Under $100, More Than 300 Words Were Just Added to Dictionary.com, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, The Sound of Silence: Song by Simon & Garfunkel, All your perfect imperfections: John Legend in his song All of Me, Clara Barton: I distinctly remember forgetting that., Isaac Bashevis Singer: We must believe in free will. 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. nt authority local system. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These word pairings are not inherently opposite, but their individual concepts can seem contradictory when combined. Consider the common oxymorons and think about times they may have been included in conversations you have had. For example, if a character receives apainful smile,this creates a significant dramatic effect. 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! Yes. [20] An oxymoronis a figure of speech, usually one or two words, in which seemingly contradictory terms appear side by side. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Privacy Policy. O loving hate! From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. This statement made by Holden reveals the level of complexity and impact an oxymoron can have as a literary device when it comes to interpretation. Oscar Wilde. An oxymoron is a figure of speech containing words that seem to contradict each other. There are some well-known phrases and quotations that make use of oxymorons. Merriam-Webster defines an oxymoron as a rhetorical device in which a combination of contradictory or incongruous words is used in conjunction. This is an oxymoron because all babies are small. Listing of antonyms, such as "good and evil", "male and female", "great and small", etc., does not create oxymorons, as it is not implied that any given object has the two opposing properties simultaneously. 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 11 October 1975. Our new student and parent forum, at ExpertHub.PrepScholar.com, allow you to interact with your peers and the PrepScholar staff. "100 Awfully Good Examples of Oxymorons." All Rights Reserved. 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. By extension, oxymorons deal with the contrast between the meanings of words, but paradoxes focus on the contrast between complete ideas. Easy Examples of Oxymorons Act naturally What Is an Oxymoron? One example of this is when Oscar Wilde comically reflected on the fact that he "can resist anything, except temptation.". As a literary device, oxymoron has the effect of creating an impression, enhancing a concept, and even entertaining the reader. it is itself an example of an oxymoron. Generally, the ideas will come as two separate words placed side by side. 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 . the word nascar is an oxymoron the word nascar is an oxymoron. With good, and bad, and worse, alike prolific, Too much of one sort would be soporific;. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Oxymoron: a combination of contradictory words. Send us feedback. Sign up for our weekly newsletters and get: By signing in, you agree to our Terms and Conditions An oxymoron is also a noun that's defined as "a figure of speech by which a locution produces an incongruous, seemingly self-contradictory effect, as in 'cruel kindness' or 'to make haste slowly.'" So when contradictory or opposing words are combined, that expression is an oxymoron. An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines two seemingly contradictory or opposite ideas to create a certain rhetorical or poetic effect and reveal a deeper truth. The defining characteristic of an oxymoron is combining words or phrases that have opposite meanings. This book, in which Wallace presents employees of the IRS and their spectacularly damaged lives, often dwells on the connection between tedium and pain. Take a look at which ones you have used in conversation: Home Uncategorized the word nascar is an oxymoron. (Jumbo means 'large' while Shrimp means 'small'). This presents the word. Grammarly stands with our friends, colleagues, and family in Ukraine, and with all people of Ukraine. To save this word, you'll need to log in. [23], Other examples include "honest politician", "act naturally", "affordable caviar" (1993),[24] "happily married" and "Microsoft Works" (2000).[25]. Bittersweet is the word for a pleasant feeling that is nonetheless marked by sadness or regret, such as the feeling one might have upon graduating from school, where many friendships were made. Copyright Penlighten & Buzzle.com, Inc. June 3, 2022 . Yet, original copy as an oxymoron commonly and figuratively means that the content of the copy is original. Check out the oxymoron definition. One of the most famous examples of a paradox is thesentence, "This statement is false." Not monosyllabic or one word, but I came upon an "oxymoron that isn't" in a book I am reading, The Pale King, David Foster Wallace (posthumous): "spectacularly dull."It turns out this phrase is pretty common. Now you can see that oxymorons add humor or drama to speech or writing, allowing you to make a funny or pointed remark. Here are some examples of oxymoron that may be found in everyday expression: insertListLink('', 2, 2, 'shortexamples'). However, you may come across many such examples that need verbal interpretations and deep understanding. This next oxymoron example is about Queen Guinevere and Sir Lancelot's tragic love affair. Website, Richard Nordquist defines oxymorons as a literary device used by writers and poets for centuries "to describe life's inherent conflicts and incongruities.". . He enjoyed writing things that weren't meant to be taken literally, simply pondered upon. . The fascinating story behind many people's favori Can you handle the (barometric) pressure? While we are loath to place restrictions on language use, oxymoron usually refers to a set of contradictory words (such as bittersweet) rather than to a contradictory person. Great Big List of Beautiful and Useless Words, Vol. oxymoron, noun : a combination for epigrammatic effect of contradictory or incongruous words. Here are some examples of oxymoron that may be found in everyday writing or conversation: Think you havent heard of any famous oxymorons? And then an interesting thing happens with superette. Sometimes people aren't trying to make a profound statement when they use oxymorons. Are you still searching for the perfect oxymoron? Feel free to look throughthis vast list of oxymoron examplesif youre in need of an oxymoron for something you're writing or if you simply want tolearn some of the most commonones. Or plastic silverware. But pairing it with, a very distinct meaning, comparing it to a loud noise that draws extra attention. It might sound like a schoolyard insult, but it's not. 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. Keep going to discover even more. Here are some of the more famous oxymoron examples from historical literature: All the pain he had endured was as nothing compared with the exquisite agony of this. Also, this oxymoron is ironic in the context of a poem in which a funeral is the subject. Thus, as the oxymoron suggests, this scene ishappy since Juliet and Romeo are in love, yet it's also sad because they must say goodbyeand cannot stay together through the night. An oxymoron is a figure of speech, usually one or two words, in which seemingly contradictory terms appear side by side. Oxymorons are a favorite literary device of poets, particularly when they express complex feelings such as love and desire. This love feel I, that feel no love in this. Well also provide you with an extensive list of oxymoronsso you can get a better feel for what oxymorons look and sound like. Awfully good, bittersweet, same difference, and original copy are a few oxymoron examples. The word is derived from two ancient Greek words: oxys, which means "sharp," and moronos, which means "dull" or "stupid." "Oxymoron" is Greek for "sharply dull," so the word is itself an oxymoron. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. Theoxymorons here point toLancelot's contradictory existence in regard to his relationships with both Guinevere and King Arthur: Lancelot isa "faithful" and "honorable" lover to Guinevere yet also an "unfaithful" and "dishonorable" knight to King Arthur, Guineveres husband, whom he is essentially betraying by carrying out a love affair with the queen. . Then check out our in-depth guide to the 31 literary devices you must know. It was featured notably by Leonardo da Vinci in such works as The Adoration of the Magi (ca. the word nascar is an oxymoron. Lederer (1990), in the spirit of "recreational linguistics", goes as far as to construct "logological oxymorons"[jargon] such as reading the word nook composed of "no" and "ok" or the surname Noyes as composed of "no" plus "yes", or far-fetched punning such as "divorce court", "U.S. Army Intelligence" or "press release". 2023. The audience was a failure. One-Word Oxymorons: Bittersweet, Spendthrift, and More | Merriam-Webster Est. $8.95. A crisis is defined as a time of serious difficulty or importance. Get Free Guides to Boost Your SAT/ACT Score, our in-depth guide to the 31 literary devices you must know. Althoughthe adjective "sweet" evokes a giddy, romantic emotion, the word "sorrow" callsto mind the much less happy, far more depressing aspect of having tobid farewell to someone you'd rather not leave. "A lot of people never use their initiative because no-one told them to.". As the example's author, Richard Watson Todd, said, "The true beauty of oxymorons is that, unless we sit back and really think, we happily accept them as normalEnglish. The Italian pianoforte or fortepiano is an example from a Western language; the term is short for gravicembalo col piano e forte, as it were "harpiscord with a range of different volumes", implying that it is possible to play both soft and loud (as well as intermediate) notes, not that the sound produced is somehow simultaneously "soft and loud". 1. We already gave an oxymoron definition above, so here lets talk about paradoxes. When we think of oxymorons, we often think of two-word phrases with seemingly opposite components, like "alone together" or "sweet sorrow." Quotes tagged as "oxymoron" Showing 1-30 of 30. oxymoron definition: 1. two words or phrases used together that have, or seem to have, opposite meanings: 2. two words. A Comprehensive Guide. Meghan Jones is a word nerd who has been writing for RD.com since 2017. Oxymoron. Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oxymoron. The lyrics of this powerful piano ballad make use of several oxymorons. You might say that they juxtapose each other, which means, when placed close together, they create an. 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. the word nascar is an oxymoron. The word 'Oxymoron' is originally derived from the Greek elements: oxy = sharp and moros (moron) = dull (foolish). An Oxymoron is a combination of contradictory or incongruous words, such as 'Cruel Kindness' or 'Jumbo Shrimp' Shellfish. What Is the Figure of Speech Antiphrasis? Find 52 ways to say OXYMORON, along with antonyms, related words, and example sentences at Thesaurus.com, the world's most trusted free thesaurus. Overall, as a literary device, oxymoron functions as a means of getting the readers attention through the pairing of opposing or contradictory words. All rights reserved. ThoughtCo. Despite the similarities, however, oxymorons and paradoxes are two different types of literary devices, each with their own special usage. Feeling 'bumfuzzled' or have the 'collywobbles'? As a literary device, oxymoron has the effect of creating an impression, enhancing a concept, and even entertaining the reader. An oxymoron term is a literary figure of speech in which opposite or contradictory words, phrases, terms or ideas If you're referring to oxymoron in plural, both oxymorons and oxymora are correct. Figure of Speech: Definition and Examples, Definition and Examples of Irony (Figure of Speech). An oxymoron is a figure of speech that puts two words next to each other with very different meanings that end up making sense in a strange way. But once you become fluent in English, it's easy to recognize such oxymorons for the figures of speech that they are. As with other rhetorical devices, oxymorons are used for a variety of purposes. the word nascar is an oxymoron. O heavy lightness, serious vanity! "with the hinder part before", compare hysteron proteron, "upside-down", "head over heels", "ass-backwards" etc. [19], "Comical oxymoron" is a term for the claim, for comical effect, that a certain phrase or expression is an oxymoron (called "opinion oxymorons" by Lederer (1990)[9]). Value Added Publishing. "darkness visible" (Milton), In this sense, theuprising was simultaneously terrible (in that it led to death) and beautiful (in its romantic aspirations for independence). Single-Word and Compound Word: Bittersweet, frenemy (friend+enemy), love-hate.Adjective + Noun: Sweet sorrow (made famous by William . Like. As a literary device, it is used to make certain word combinations more thought-provoking to stand out. What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For? Oxymoron can be an excellent tool in creating humor for a reader. There are a number of single-word oxymorons built from "dependent morphemes"[9] (i.e. Wills argues that use of the term "oxymoron" should remain reserved for the conscious use of contradiction to express something that is "surprisingly true". However, if you think too hard about the meaning, you'll realize that on the surface it doesn't quite make sense. Heres a tip: Want to make sure your writing shines? As a rhetorical device, an oxymoron illustrates a point to communicate and reveal a paradox. It may seem illogical or unrealistic, but, upon reflection, its based in reality and stems from valid reasoning. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. We provide informative and helpful articles about the newest fiction and nonfiction books on the market that you can come back to again and again when you have the urge for a new book to dig into. Below, we provide you with an extensive list of oxymorons. Without, or with, offence to friends or foes. It's likely you've used, or at least heard, a few oxymorons in your everyday life, even if you didn't realize it at the time. Oxymoron phrases can be figuratively true, but not literally true. However, she lovingly anticipates seeing him again which is a pleasant feeling. Nordquist also notes that, "In speech, oxymorons can lend a sense of humor, irony, or sarcasm.". Generally, the ideas will come astwo separate words placed side by side. Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way. https://www.thoughtco.com/awfully-good-examples-of-oxymorons-1691814 (accessed March 4, 2023). So how did we arrive at spendthrift for a word for someone who spends money wastefully? The pairing of contradictory terms grabs attention, generates surprise, and creates an impression. Crustacean. An example of such a "comical oxymoron" is "educational television": the humour derives entirely from the claim that it is an oxymoron by the implication that "television" is so trivial as to be inherently incompatible with "education". "Saturday Night Live transcripts." They're not always small, and the word doesn't mean small in this sense. Sign up to receive the latest and greatest articles from our site automatically each week (give or take)right to your inbox. He gave me a. parting is such sweet sorrow. He was very warmly thanked both by mother and daughter; to escape a little from the latter, he went to the pianoforte, and begged Miss Fairfax, who was still sitting at it, to play something more. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Indeed, oxymorons are often used to make fun of an idea, person, or . But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. An oxymoron is a figure of speech pairing two antithetical or contradictory concepts. tags: independent-thought , initiative , oxymoron , paradox. Therefore, Salinger cleverly calls into question Holdens reliability as a narrator through just this figure of speech. Want to learn more about figures of speech, besides oxymorons and paradoxes? In a more extended sense, the term "oxymoron" has also been applied to inadvertent or incidental contradictions, as in the case of "dead metaphors" ("barely clothed" or "terribly good"). The dictionary defines an oxymoron as a "wittily paradoxical turn of phrase that appeals to 'unconscious responses' instead of rational examinations". An oxymoron is a conjoined pair of (seemingly) contradictory terms, e.g.deafening silence, pretty ugly, same difference, silent scream, or jumbo shrimp. An oxymoron is a figure of speech that places contradictory terms next to each other in a word or phrase. . As a rhetorical device, an oxymoron illustrates a point to communicate and reveal a paradox. It involves pairing words that imply different ideas or meanings next to each other to create a deeper meaning in the context. Learn all about effective imageryandwhat personification is with our expert guides. Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about oxymoron. Oxymoron is a figure of speech that uses two opposing words or contradictory words to convey a new idea. The word "oxymoron" is derived from Greek a combination of oxy- meaning keen or sharp and -mrs meaning dull or foolish. It is also comedic in terms of behavior, both in terms of a man acting like a child or a child behaving like a man.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'literarydevices_net-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_15',131,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-literarydevices_net-large-mobile-banner-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'literarydevices_net-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_16',131,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-literarydevices_net-large-mobile-banner-1-0_1');.large-mobile-banner-1-multi-131{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. With loads of learned lumber in his head . This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. One moose, two moose. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. What are examples of oxymoron? The other two oxymorons emphasize the fact that no matter what happensfor example,no matter how sad or defeated the speaker might feelthere willalways be a silver lining in that he'swith the love of his life. Are you Nobody too? (, Ordinary riches can be stolen; real riches cannot. (, Vidia was complicated, two fairies in one, a loyal traitor. (Gail Carson Levine). Check out the funniest accidental, and intentional, malapropism examples as well. These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'oxymoron.' Theme music by Joshua Stamper 2006 New Jerusalem Music/ASCAP. But in some instances, a single word is all it takes. 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. The term chiaroscuro, used in Renaissance painting, refers to the transition from light to shadow across an object (such as a muscled arm) to create the perception of depth. 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 For example, just pairing any two words that are contradictory wont make for an effective oxymoron. Oxymoron is also a literary device, but is considered a condensed paradox. RELATED: Palindrome Examples: Words and Phrases That Are the Same Backwards and Forwards, RELATED: The Most Confusing Rules in the Grammar World, RELATED:The Best-Ever Hyperbole Examples, RELATED: Pangram Examples Every Word Lover Will Appreciate. They can enhance writing and communication in a variety of ways, including by adding dramatic effect. Instead, meaning should be derived from the context in which an oxymoron is used. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced searchad free! Jack London, The Call of the Wild, All the pain he had endured was as nothing compared with the exquisite agony of this., The bookful blockhead, ignorantly read, 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]. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Common examples of oxymorons include cruel kindness, open secret, and jumbo shrimp . by | Jun 10, 2022 | flying saucer bar locations | metro flexline service manual | Jun 10, 2022 | flying saucer bar locations | metro flexline service manual However, an oxymoron, in its strict definition, requires that the two words be side by side, as in: "X was undergoing constant change." The phrase "The only constant is change." (the original Asimov quote), or the phrase "Change is the only constant," is best described as a simple paradox. The most common type of oxymoron is an adjective followed by a noun. tautology, noun : needless or meaningless repetition in close succession of an idea, statement, or word. These figures of speech can enhance a readers understanding of a concept, interpretation of a phrase, or enjoyment of language. The word "oxymoron" is itself oxymoronic, which is to say contradictory. This list is in no way comprehensive, and just aims at giving you an idea as to what oxymora are. Oxymoron Definitions The dictionary definition of oxymoron is:- A rhetorical figure of speech in which contradictory terms are paired, for example, alone together, current history or boneless ribs. Your writing, at its best You have been successfully subscribed to the Grammarly blog. One moose, two moose. 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. Seeing these oxymoron examples used in the context of sentences may provide a better idea of how and why they're used. Writers and poets have used it for centuries as a literary device to describe life's inherent conflicts and incongruities. It takes that remaining super- prefix from supermarket and then replaces market with the diminutive suffix -ette (as found in words like kitchenette or featurette). The inherent setup of contradictory words works great for jokes and other witty statements. The most common type of oxymoron is an adjective followed by a noun. However, the explicit advertisement of the use of oxymorons opened up a sliding scale of less than obvious construction, ending in the "opinion oxymorons" such as "business ethics". Check out Tutorbase! In many cases they are obvious. josh brener commercial. oxymoron (n.) in rhetoric, "a figure conjoining words or terms apparently contradictory so as to give point to the statement or expression," 1650s, from Greek oxymron, noun use of neuter of oxymros (adj.) Oxymoronically is the adverbial form of the word. An oxymoron is a self-contradicting word or group of words (as in Shakespeare's line from Romeo and Juliet, "Why, then, O brawling love!