A Discussion of Oxymoron

Oxymoron, as a figure of speech frequently used in English, usually reflects the semantic features of dialectical unity. Furthermore, the proper use of oxymoron brings about unique artistic charm. The paper attempts to explore its characteristics peculiar to oxymoron from the following three aspects: formation, pragmatic functions, and rhetorical effects. For one thing, oxymoron is the integration of contrasting forms and harmonious connotations; for another, it makes clear the profound meanings from the pragmatic approach by revealing the contradictory features coexisting in things. An oxymoron initially surprises one with its incongruity of terms, which really hides a certain truth or philosophy. Therefore, an understanding of oxymoron can help us to appreciate more fully the implied complexity of things and feelings.