Definite maybe or open secret, e.g Crossword Clue

A warm welcome to all crossword lovers!
Its time to solve "Definite maybe or open secret, e.g" crossword clue for today's "Wall Street Journal" daily crossword.

Understanding Today's Crossword Puzzle

The answer to today's clue, "Definite maybe or open secret, e.g," is OXYMORON. This answer fits the clue because an oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms. Let's break down the connection between the clue and the answer:

1. Definite Maybe: The term "Definite Maybe" itself is contradictory, as "definite" implies certainty while "maybe" introduces doubt. This contradictory pairing exemplifies the essence of an oxymoron.
2. Open Secret: Similarly, an "open secret" is a phrase that presents a paradoxical idea. Secrets are meant to be kept hidden, yet when something is an "open secret," it suggests widespread knowledge despite the supposed secrecy. This contradiction aligns with the nature of an oxymoron.

Therefore, the answer "OXYMORON" is a perfect match for the given clue, highlighting the contradictory pairing of words to convey a unique meaning.

Definition of "OXYMORON"

a figure of speech in which apparently contradictory terms appear in conjunction (e.g. faith unfaithful kept him falsely true).

 The Crossword clue "Definite maybe or open secret, e.g" published 1 time/s & has 1 answer/s. 

Crossword	Date	Answer
Wall Street Journal	18 December 2017	OXYMORON