Oxymoron (02/20)

Front

What is an oxymoron?

Back

An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms, such as 'bittersweet' or 'deafening silence.'

Front

Give an example of an oxymoron.

Back

'Pretty ugly' is an example of an oxymoron.

Front

What does the term 'fine mess' imply?

Back

'Fine mess' is an oxymoron that suggests a situation that is both good ('fine') and bad ('mess').

Front

Identify the oxymoron in this sentence: 'This is another fine mess you have got us into.'

Back

'Fine mess' is the oxymoron in the sentence.

Front

What does 'same difference' mean?

Back

'Same difference' is an oxymoron used to indicate that two things are essentially the same despite appearing different.

Front

Which of the following is NOT an oxymoron: 'mild hot sauce', 'comfortable misery', 'a wise fool', 'a smart decision'?

Back

'A smart decision' is NOT an oxymoron.

Front

What is the effect of using oxymorons in writing?

Back

Oxymorons create a dramatic effect, provoke thought, and can add humor or irony to a statement.

Front

Can oxymorons be used in poetry?

Back

Yes, oxymorons are often used in poetry to convey complex emotions and ideas.

Front

What is the oxymoron in the phrase 'clearly confused'?

Back

'Clearly confused' is an oxymoron that suggests someone is confused but also has clarity about their confusion.

Front

How do oxymorons differ from paradoxes?

Back

Oxymorons are two contradictory words used together, while paradoxes are statements that seem contradictory but may reveal a deeper truth.