Which of the following is an example of oxymoron?
A. From the day he came, Danny has been the most devilish angel I’d ever met.
B. Uncle Steve is the size of a whale and has about as much personality.
C. I’ve crossed a thousand oceans to stand before you and confess my love.
D. The new attorney is a lion in the courtroom — patient, cunning, and fierce.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is A. From the day he came, Danny has been the most devilish angel I’d ever met.
Explanation of Oxymoron
An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which contradictory terms appear in conjunction, creating a paradoxical effect. It combines two opposing ideas to reveal a deeper meaning or highlight a particular sentiment. In option A, the phrase “devilish angel” juxtaposes the terms “devilish,” which connotes malice or wickedness, with “angel,” typically associated with purity, goodness, and benevolence. This contrast enhances the complexity of Danny’s character, suggesting that he possesses both charming and mischievous traits, inviting the reader to explore the nuances of his personality.
Analysis of Other Options
- B. Uncle Steve is the size of a whale and has about as much personality.
This statement employs hyperbole and simile rather than an oxymoron. It exaggerates Uncle Steve’s size by comparing him to a whale and implies a lack of personality, but the terms do not contradict each other. - C. I’ve crossed a thousand oceans to stand before you and confess my love.
This sentence uses hyperbole and metaphor. The imagery suggests immense effort and longing, but it does not contain contradictory terms. - D. The new attorney is a lion in the courtroom — patient, cunning, and fierce.
This option uses metaphor. It likens the attorney to a lion, emphasizing qualities such as bravery and cunning, but again, there is no inherent contradiction.
In summary, option A exemplifies an oxymoron through the contrasting concepts of “devilish” and “angel,” which together enrich the description and emotional depth of the character described. Oxymorons can effectively convey complex emotions and ideas, making them a powerful tool in language and literature.