C1adjective2K

Ironic

UK /["/aɪˈrɒnɪk/","/aɪˈrɒnɪkl/"]/US /["/aɪˈrɑːnɪk/","/aɪˈrɑːnɪkl/"]/

Definition

showing that you really mean the opposite of what you are saying; expressing irony

In simple words: When something happens that is opposite of what you expect.

Examples

  • an ironic comment
  • He was greeted with ironic cheers from opposition MPs.
  • She sent him a faintly ironic sideways glance.
  • It's ironic that she became a teacher—she used to hate school.

Usage notes

Use 'ironic' to describe situations that turn out differently than expected, often in a humorous way. Avoid using it for simple coincidences or unrelated events.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'iron' — it's strong but can bend unexpectedly, much like ironic situations.

Collocations

  • be
  • seem
  • find something
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • be
  • seem
  • find something
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very

Synonyms

  • sarcastic
  • paradoxical
  • mocking
  • contradictory

Antonyms

  • straightforward
  • direct

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'ironic' with 'coincidental'.
  • Using 'ironic' for cases that are merely unfortunate.
  • Overusing 'ironic' in situations that lack genuine contrast.