contradiction in terms

contradiction in terms (plural contradictions in terms)

1. A phrase or expression in which the component words contradict one another, often unintentionally, or are claimed to do so when seen from a particular point of view.

   "A miniature giant" is a contradiction in terms.

• See the usage notes at oxymoron

• oxymoron (considered incorrect in formal usage – see the usage notes at oxymoron)
• contradictio in terminis

• contradiction