Oxymorons Practice

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

'Jumbo shrimp' is an example of an oxymoron.

Front

Is 'found missing' an oxymoron?

Back

Yes, 'found missing' is an oxymoron because 'found' and 'missing' contradict each other.

Front

Identify the oxymoron in this phrase: 'clearly confused.'

Back

The oxymoron is 'clearly confused' because 'clearly' suggests understanding, while 'confused' suggests a lack of understanding.

Front

What does 'open secret' mean?

Back

An 'open secret' is something that is supposed to be a secret but is widely known.

Front

Which of the following is NOT an oxymoron: 'peace and love' or 'awfully good'?

Back

'Peace and love' is not an oxymoron; it represents two harmonious concepts.

Front

What is the purpose of using oxymorons in language?

Back

Oxymorons are used to create a dramatic effect, provoke thought, or highlight a contradiction.

Front

Can you create an oxymoron using the words 'silent' and 'scream'?

Back

Yes, 'silent scream' is an oxymoron that suggests a scream that is not heard.

Front

What is the oxymoron in the phrase 'definite maybe'?

Back

The oxymoron is 'definite maybe' because 'definite' implies certainty, while 'maybe' implies uncertainty.

Front

How does an oxymoron differ from a paradox?

Back

An oxymoron is a combination of contradictory terms, while a paradox is a statement that seems self-contradictory but may reveal a deeper truth.