Oxymoron Flashcard

Front

What is an oxymoron?

Back

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

Front

Identify an example of an oxymoron.

Back

'Pretty ugly' is an example of an oxymoron.

Front

What does the term 'clearly confused' represent?

Back

'Clearly confused' is an oxymoron because 'clearly' and 'confused' are contradictory.

Front

In the phrase 'jumbo shrimp', what literary device is being used?

Back

'Jumbo shrimp' is an example of an oxymoron.

Front

What is the purpose of using oxymorons in literature?

Back

Oxymorons create a dramatic effect, highlight contrasts, and provoke thought.

Front

Can you give an example of an oxymoron in a sentence?

Back

'The comedian had a seriously funny routine.'

Front

What is the difference between an oxymoron and a metaphor?

Back

An oxymoron combines contradictory terms, while a metaphor makes a direct comparison between two unrelated things.

Front

Identify the oxymoron in the sentence: 'The living dead.'

Back

'The living dead' is an oxymoron because 'living' and 'dead' are opposites.

Front

What is a common misconception about oxymorons?

Back

A common misconception is that oxymorons are simply mistakes in language, but they are intentional literary devices.

Front

How does an oxymoron differ from a paradox?

Back

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