An oxymoron is a phrase that uses two contradictory or opposing terms, while an antithesis is a device that presents two contrasting ideas in a sentence (but not in the same phrase).
An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory or opposing ideas appear in the same phrase. It is used to a point more subtly – for humour or for reflection – than by using a direct reference. For example:
- The rising moon over the city dump presented a beautifully ugly scene.
- To accept death rather than dishonour was the only choice available.
An antithesis is a literary device that uses two contrasting or opposing ideas in a sentence to create a contrasting effect. The presence of the two opposing ideas is to bring out a deeper meaning by drawing the attention of the listener/reader and through emphasis. For example:
- That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.
- United we stand, divided we fall.
