A figure of speech in which two words with opposing meanings are used together intentionally for effect. A contradiction in terms or a paradoxical juxtaposition of two seemingly contradictory words.
For example: definite maybe, devout atheist, military intelligence, negative growth, a fine mess, jumbo shrimp, ill health, lead balloon, true fiction, unbiased opinion.
‘No light, but rather darkness visible Serv’d only to discover sights of woe.’ – John Milton, Paradise Lost
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