An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms to create a unique expression. For example, phrases like “deafening silence” or “bittersweet” illustrate how two opposing ideas can coexist. This literary device often adds depth and complexity to language, making it more engaging and thought-provoking. Writers and speakers use oxymorons to convey emotions or highlight contrasts in a creative way. In literature, characters might experience a “jumbo shrimp” moment, where they feel both large and small at the same time. By using oxymorons, authors like William Shakespeare and Jane Austen enrich their storytelling and provoke deeper reflection.