Chiasmus and paradox are two distinct rhetorical devices that serve different purposes in language and literature.
Chiasmus is a figure of speech in which two or more clauses are balanced against each other by the reversal of their structures. A classic example is the phrase from John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address: ‘Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.’ In this case, the structure of the two clauses mirrors each other, providing a rhythmic quality and highlighting the contrast between the two ideas.
On the other hand, a paradox is a statement that seems contradictory or opposed to common sense but may actually possess a hidden truth. For example, ‘Less is more’ is a paradox because the phrase suggests that reducing something can lead to a greater effect. Paradoxes are often used to provoke thought and illustrate complex ideas that challenge conventional wisdom.
In summary, while chiasmus focuses on the structure and balance of phrases, a paradox emphasizes the meaning and irony within a statement. Both devices enhance language but do so in fundamentally different ways.