Determine the device used in the following lines from “The Emperor’s New Clothes.”

“Here it is your Highness, the result of our labor,” the scoundrels said. “We have worked night and day but, at last, the most beautiful fabric in the world is ready for you. Look at the colors and feel how fine it is.”

oxymoron

malapropism

verbal irony

understatement

Question

Determine the device used in the following lines from “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” 

“Here it is your Highness, the result of our labor,” the scoundrels said. “We have worked night and day but, at last, the most beautiful fabric in the world is ready for you. Look at the colors and feel how fine it is.”

 oxymoron

 malapropism

 verbal irony

 understatement

anonymous · Answer

Malapropism, maybe? I'm not sure...

jagatuba · Answer

No. Malapropism is the misuse of similar sounding words. Example: 

I pledge my allegiance and my WIFE (instead of life) to the king.

An oxymoron combines contradictory terms. Example:

"Here he comes, ACT NATURALLY." 
OR
I was disappointed to find that the meat had FREEZER BURN.

Verbal irony is a statement in which the meaning of the speaker is different, if not opposite, from the meaning that is ostensibly expressed. While speaking it is often conveyed through tone of voice, but in writing simile is a common device to convey verbal irony. Example:

He was as bright as a two-watt lightbulb.
OR
I wouldn't trust that babe as far as I could bowl her. (The Adventures of Ford Fairlane)

Understatement is when an expression carries less strength than one would be expected. Example:

After traveling 1500 miles to pick up his car from a parking garage, Bill says to Ted, "I hope you brought your ticket."

With these definitions and examples I think you can find the right answer.