An oxymoron is usually defined as a phrase in which two words of contradictory meaning are brought together:
1. Clearly misunderstood
2. Exact estimate
3. Small crowd
4. Pretty ugly
5. Only choice
6. Act naturally
7. Found missing
8. Fully empty
9. Seriously funny
10. Original copies
Can you think of any more?
Language learning can be a lot of fun :D
@Neil
Other than your number 2, I don’t think any of those are true oxymorons. I see your point, but all the others are just sort of colloquial phrases or something. But, it was a good effort.
The best example of an oxymoron I tell people, is “flaming snowballs.” I think you really need to find words that are true opposites to make the point. I`m rather fond of Michael`s “military intelligence” for a good laugh.
Here goes:
- deafening silence
- sinfully good
- walking dead
How about:
- plastic silverware
- working vacation
