What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oxymoronic
Example
The phrase 'jumbo shrimp' is an example of an oxymoron. [oxymoron: noun]
Example
His speech was full of oxymoronic statements that left the audience confused. [oxymoronic: adjective]
contradictory
Example
Her actions were contradictory to her words, which made it difficult to trust her. [contradictory: adjective]
Example
The two witnesses gave contradictory statements about what they saw. [contradictory: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Contradictory is more commonly used than oxymoronic in everyday language. Contradictory is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while oxymoronic is less common and often used in creative or humorous writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oxymoronic and contradictory?
Both oxymoronic and contradictory can be used in formal and informal contexts, but oxymoronic may be seen as more playful or creative, while contradictory may be seen as more serious or negative.
