What figure of speech is characterized by strongly contrasting words, clauses, sentences, or ideas?

The figure of speech that is characterized by strongly contrasting words, clauses, sentences, or ideas is antithesis. This literary device involves placing opposing ideas in close proximity to highlight their differences and create a clear contrast. By using antithesis, writers can emphasize a particular theme or point, making their arguments more persuasive and impactful.

For instance, using a phrase like "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times" effectively illustrates the coexistence of two opposing states, drawing attention to the complexities of the situation being described. This technique not only clarifies the distinctions between contrasting ideas but also enhances the expressiveness of the language, engaging the audience's attention.

The other options—oxymoron, paradox, and alliteration—focus on different aspects of language and do not capture the essence of contrasting ideas in the same way. An oxymoron combines two contradictory terms (like "bittersweet"), a paradox presents an apparent contradiction that may reveal a deeper truth (like "less is more"), and alliteration involves the repetition of initial consonant sounds in a series of words. Each of these serves unique purposes in writing, but they do not embody the direct contrast that antithesis does.