Which of the following best describes an "oxymoron"?

An oxymoron is accurately described as a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms. This literary device highlights the complexity of a situation or thought by juxtaposing opposing ideas, creating a new meaning that is often thought-provoking or ironic. Common examples include phrases like "deafening silence" or "bittersweet," where the contradiction enhances the expression of the concept being conveyed. This characteristic makes oxymorons effective in poetry and prose, as they draw attention to the depth and intricacies of human experience and emotions. The other options do not capture this essential quality, as they refer to unrelated concepts such as meaningless terms, comparisons, or specific poetry structures.