Oxymorons are figures of speech in which two contradictory terms are combined in order to create a rhetorical effect by paradoxical means. The word oxymoron is derived from the Greek for pointedly foolish (oxys = sharp/keen and moros = foolish). Oxymorons are extremely useful in written English because they can make effective titles, add dramatic effect, add flavor to speech, and can sometimes be used to achieve a comedic effect. Here is a comprehensive list of 64 examples of oxymorons in sentences. In each example, the oxymoron is underlined.
Examples of Oxymorons in Sentences
- This is another fine mess you have got us into.
- There is a real love hate relationship developing between the two of them.
- Suddenly the room filled with a deafening silence.
- The comedian was seriously funny.
- You are clearly confused by the situation you have found yourself in.
- Her singing was enough to raise the living dead.
- Do you have the original copies that we requested?
- This is a genuine imitation Rolex watch.
- I really would like to try that new jumbo shrimp restaurant.
- His new girlfriend really is pretty ugly.
- Sorry, I can’t help you out right now, I am involved in my own minor crisis.
- Give me the fifty dollars you owe me or pay for dinner, it’s the same difference.
- My trip to Bali was very much a working holiday.
- I let out a silent scream as the cat walked through the door carrying a dead bird.
- You are going to have to use proofreading services, it is your only choice.
- The seventies was the era of free love.
- I will ask the professor for his unbiased opinion.
- The constant variable is the one that does not change.
- The sermon lasted for an endless hour.
- We laughed and cried through the tragic comedy.
- Parting is such sweet sorrow.
- They couldn’t wait to get out alone together.
- We’ll use plastic glasses at the picnic.
- The student teacher explained how to complete dissertation editing.
- The gossip is old news.
- The lady he eventually married is painfully beautiful.
- Wow! This ice cream is disgustingly delicious.
- Be careful in the playground, run slowly.
- Your apple pie is awfully good.
- A small crowd gathered to watch the concert.
- It’s an open secret that they have been having an affair for the past six months.
- He has a real passive aggressive personality.
- You were awfully lucky to escape the car crash unscathed.
- Stop being a big baby.
- I am sure I am growing smaller as I get older.
- She is my least favorite relation.
- The story was based on the concept of a true myth.
- That is an example of the typically weird behavior she continually demonstrates.
- He has become an extremely unpopular celebrity.
- I’m on a heavy diet until my wedding day.
- I am a deeply superficial person.
- I like a smuggler. He is the only honest thief.
- Good grief, we’re really late.
- I can’t make any promises but it’s a definite possibility.
- She was terribly pleased with her Birthday present.
- The army returned friendly fire as the enemy approached.
- He installed the new wireless cable in the television room.
- He was forced to stand down from his position as president.
- There will be zero tolerance in the future.
- I had no choice but to do what I was told.
Funny, Sarcastic and Cynical Oxymorons:
- Microsoft Works
- Military intelligence
- Government organization
- American history
- Business ethics
- Butt Head
- Temporary tax increase
- Twelve-ounce pound cake
- Express Mail
- Marital bliss
- Congressional ethics
- Airline Food
- President Bush
- Peace Keeper Missile
Can you think of any examples of oxymorons in sentences? Leave a comment and share them with us all.
For more figurative language examples, see our guide to onomatopoeia.
27 Comments
How is “free love” an oxymoron?
Your an oxymoron….haha…anonymous….but you leave a photo!!
love is always an investment in another :—)
chackers
the seventies of the era was free love
ahhhhhhhh funny!!!
If you’ve been a reader for a while, perhaps you’ll remember some of the
terminology from online
proofreading
wht are the different types of oxymoron
Does we have different types of oxymoron
Happily Married! :P
Love it! Thanks.
“oxymoron” is itself an oxymoron it means – clever foolishness.
Political correctness has to be the biggest one of all! (or is it just a plain lie?)
Define a “good christian trump supporter”?
I watched the event from the dangerous safety of a tower
What abt bitter truf?
Stop work
I’ve learnt something atleast
is uninvited guest an oxymoron?
Yes :)
She shouted! If my father were alive he’d turn in his grave at the sight of you 😂
Humane slaughter.
Common Sense (it’s so rare!!!)
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