Question

Main difference between an oxymoron and a paradox

Answer 1

An oxymoron is a phrase where two opposites are used together for an effect, sometimes emphasis, drama, or for comedic relief.  Examples are act naturally, painfully beautiful, quiet presence, etc.  A paradox is sort of like a brain teaser. It seems absurd and self contradictory and may be against the common beliefs. Examples:  Less is more, "All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others" from Animal Farm, "War is Peace" from 1984, etc.