What is an “oxymoron”?
Merriam-Webster’s definition: oxymoron \ahk-sih-MOR-ahn\ noun. : a combination of contradictory or incongruous words (such as cruel kindness); broadly: something (such as a concept) that is made up of contradictory or incongruous elements.⠀
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Oxymorons add humor or drama to speech or writing, allowing you to make a funny or pointed remark. I have to say, my favorite oxymoron is “seriously funny.”
Keep reading for a list of examples, an important grammar tip, and some “seriously funny” one-liners!
Commonly used examples:
Alone together
Love-hate
Fine mess
Small crowd
Act naturally
Recent past
Zero tolerance
Endless hour
Least favorite
Good grief
Wireless cable
Stand down
Deeply superficial
Cruel kindness
Awfully good
Run slowly
Old news
Plastic glasses
Unbiased opinion
Same difference
Working holiday
Minor crisis
Jumbo shrimp
Lost discoveries
Clearly misunderstood
Only choice
Tragic comedy
Current history
Original copies
True myth
New-classic
Random order
Passive-aggressive
Deafening silence
Sweet sorrow
Dark light
Farewell reception
Bittersweet
Falsely true
Private exhibit
Honest thief
Rap music
Paid volunteers
Genuine imitation
Constant variable
Social distancing
Seriously funny
“Seriously funny” (or at least giggle-worthy) one-liners:
😂 Dogs have masters. Cats have staff.
😂 Rap is to music as Etch-A-Sketch is to art. (Sorry rap lovers!)
😂 Three guys walk *into a bar. The fourth one ducked.
Grammar tip:
*In the one-liner above, using “into” is incorrect, but it works for the joke.
It should be “in to.” You walk “in to” a bar. (To the inside or interior.)
Proper use of “in to”: He gave “in to” the pressure.
Proper use of “into: He threw the note “into” the fire. (Indicates movement in this example)
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