Paradox vs. Oxymoron

Placing side by side two contradictory words that make logical sense when explained.

• paradox

• oxymoron

Placing two contradictory phrases or ideas that, through deeper analysis, make logical sense.

• paradox

• oxymoron

deafening silence

• oxymoron

• paradox

"Oh he's so beautiful--such a beautiful disaster," sings Kelly Clarkson.

• oxymoron

• paradox

Which of the following is NOT oxymoron?

• mild hot sauce
• comfortable misery 
• a wise fool 
•  a smart decision 

It was the best of times; it was the worst of times.

• onomatopoeia

• paradox

Zombies are the living dead.

• oxymoron

• paradox

Identify the paradox.

• The clouds drifted lazily in the sky.
• The person who wrote that book can’t write.
• The clown fish swam comically in the aquarium.
• I was confused by the lesson.

Identify the paradox. 

• Whose turn is it?
• Robert carefully built a model of the ship.
• Remember to take out the trash.
•  If you want peace, you must prepare for war.

Identify the paradox.

• The best advice I have for you is: don’t listen to advice.
• The rains came.
• Parting is such sweet sorrow.
• She cared for him all his life.