How Do You Spell OXYMORONIC?

Pronunciation: [ˌɒksɪmɔːɹˈɒnɪk] (IPA)

The word "oxymoronic" is spelled with four syllables: /ɒksɪmɒrɒnɪk/. The first two syllables, "ox" and "i," are pronounced like the animal "ox" and the letter "i" respectively. The third syllable "mor" is pronounced with an "o" sound as in "more" and the fourth syllable "on" is pronounced with an "ah" sound followed by an "n." The final syllable "ic" is pronounced with an "ik" sound. This word is used to describe a combination of contradictory ideas or concepts.

OXYMORONIC Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "oxymoronic" refers to a linguistic or conceptual contradiction that occurs when two contradictory or incongruous terms are combined in a manner that seems contradictory at first glance, but upon deeper examination, reveals a hidden truth or paradox. The word is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "oxys" meaning "sharp" or "pointed" and "moros" meaning "foolish" or "dull."

    When applied to language, an oxymoronic phrase or expression often fuses two contrasting concepts or qualities that are seemingly contradictory, such as in "bittersweet," "jumbo shrimp," or "living dead." These combinations highlight the inherent tension, irony, or complexity within a particular idea or situation.

    The oxymoronic nature of a phrase or expression allows for a unique rhetorical effect by merging opposing elements in a way that stimulates cognitive dissonance and engages the imagination. It challenges traditional notions, prompts dialogue, and invites deeper contemplation.

    Used as an adjective, "oxymoronic" describes something that embodies or exhibits an oxymoron. It signifies a contradicting adjective-noun structure that conveys a deeper meaning or truth, in contrast to the surface-level tension created by the combination of contrary terms.

    In non-linguistic contexts, "oxymoronic" can be utilized to describe objects, actions, or situations that encompass opposing qualities or characteristics, generating intrigue, fascination, or confusion. The term highlights the paradoxical nature of a subject, identifying its enigmatic or complex essence.

Common Misspellings for OXYMORONIC

  • ixymoronic
  • kxymoronic
  • lxymoronic
  • pxymoronic
  • 0xymoronic
  • 9xymoronic
  • ozymoronic
  • ocymoronic
  • odymoronic
  • osymoronic
  • oxtmoronic
  • oxgmoronic
  • oxhmoronic
  • oxumoronic
  • ox7moronic
  • ox6moronic
  • oxynoronic
  • oxykoronic
  • oxyjoronic
  • oxymironic

Etymology of OXYMORONIC

The term "oxymoron" comes from the Ancient Greek words "oxy" meaning "sharp" or "keen", and "moros" meaning "foolish" or "dull". The word was first coined by the Greek playwright Herakles in the 5th century BCE, and it describes a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms, such as "jumbo shrimp" or "wise fool". The word "oxymoronic" is simply the adjective form of "oxymoron", used to describe something that exhibits the qualities of an oxymoron.

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