English-20

English-20

OXYMORON

An oxymoron is generally a two-word expression assembled by words that mutually contradict. Thus, it comes to have the stratus of a ‘Paradox’. Being what it is, an oxymoron can represent sarcastic reference/ humour and irony as well.

Statements or expressions that self contradict can be termed ‘Oxy moronic’.

Etymologically, the term ‘oxymoron’ is derived from two Greek EXPRESSIONS- oxys and moronos.  'Oxys' means sharp [incisive] ;moronos' refers to stupidity.                         Justifiably the word ‘oxymoron’ qualifies to be the best fit terminology to refer to such self contradictory / paradoxical components in statements.

Interestingly, William Shakespeare has liberally strewn oxymoron through his plays. Oxymoron has come to enjoy a status of ‘genuine expression’ until one carefully rips the word open for its assembly. It conveniently sneaks through the flowing language managing a grand acceptance by reader[s]. The word ‘Oxymora’ is suggested to be the plural for oxymoron and oxymora are said to be inherent among political oratory rich in rhetoric meant to twist truth. 

Some oxymora are

Civil war                                                                       Original copy

Business Ethics                                                             Friendly fox

Deafening silence                                                         Loud whisper

Honest Politician                                                          Only choice

Clearly misunderstood

Eloquent silence

Exact estimate

Deceptively honest

Cruel kindness

Crash landing

Found missing

Festive tranquility

Ill health

Impossible solution

Successful flop

Smooth bruise

There are many such which help to portray certain incongruities.

Prof. K. Raman