oxymoron
Say it: ok-sih-MOR-on /ˌɒksɪˈmɔːrɒn/ · noun
What “oxymoron” means
Two words together whose meanings seem to contradict each other.
More precisely: A phrase combining two contradictory words, such as 'deafening silence'.
Example: “'Working holiday' is an oxymoron, at least the way I do it.”
When to use it
When discussing short phrases that join opposing ideas, often to create a striking, funny or thought-provoking effect.
Similar words
contradiction in terms, paradox
Where it comes from
Greek oxumōros 'pointedly foolish', from oxus 'sharp' and mōros 'foolish'.
Quick check
A reviewer calls a film an original copy, putting two contradictory words together. What kind of phrase is that?
a euphemism or an oxymoron?
Show the answer
an oxymoron
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