How Do You Spell OXYMORONS?

Pronunciation: [ˌɒksɪmˈɔːɹɒnz] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "oxymorons" may seem confusing, but it follows the rules of English phonetics. The first syllable, "oxy," is pronounced with a long "o" sound, like "ahk-see." The second syllable, "mor," is pronounced with a short "o" sound, like "mor." The final syllable, "ons," is pronounced with a short "u" sound, like "uhns." Together, the word sounds like "ahk-see-mor-uhns." Despite its unusual spelling, "oxymorons" is a commonly used term to describe contradictory phrases.

OXYMORONS Meaning and Definition

1. Oxymorons are a literary device that involves the combination of contradictory words or phrases in order to create a contrasting effect, often for the purpose of emphasizing or highlighting a certain concept or idea. The term "oxymoron" is derived from the Greek words "oxys," meaning "sharp" or "keen," and "moros," meaning "stupid" or "dull." When an oxymoron is used, it results in a seemingly paradoxical statement, as the words used contradict each other in terms of their meaning or association.

   These contradictory words or phrases are brought together to create a new and unique meaning that adds depth and complexity to a text, challenging the reader's understanding and perception. Oxymorons are often used in literature, poetry, and rhetoric to create memorable and thought-provoking expressions.

   Examples of famous oxymorons include "jumbo shrimp," combining the giant size of an elephant with the smallness of a crustacean; "bittersweet," expressing both pleasure and sadness simultaneously; and "deafening silence," juxtaposing the absence of sound with a loud and overwhelming impact.

   Overall, oxymorons serve as powerful literary devices that play with language and meaning, allowing writers to convey complex emotions, deepen characterization, and engage readers in a unique and memorable manner.

Common Misspellings for OXYMORONS

• ixymorons
• kxymorons
• lxymorons
• pxymorons
• 0xymorons
• 9xymorons
• ozymorons
• ocymorons
• odymorons
• osymorons
• oxtmorons
• oxgmorons
• oxhmorons
• oxumorons
• ox7morons
• ox6morons
• oxynorons
• oxykorons
• oxyjorons
• oxymirons

Etymology of OXYMORONS

The word "oxymoron" comes from the combination of two Greek words: "oxys", meaning "sharp" or "keen", and "moros", meaning "dull" or "foolish". The literal translation of "oxymoron" is "pointedly foolish" or "sharp-stupid". The term itself is an example of an oxymoron as it combines contradictory elements ("sharp" and "foolish") to form a single word.

Similar spelling word for OXYMORONS

• oxymoron.