C1adjective2K

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

Meaning of Ironic

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.

Ironic in a sentence

  • 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.

How to use Ironic

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.

Related words

Collocations with Ironic

Synonyms for Ironic

Opposites of Ironic

Common mistakes with Ironic

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

Ironic appears in

Ironic in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Ironic

What does Ironic mean?

When something happens that is opposite of what you expect.

What is the definition of Ironic?

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

How do you use Ironic in a sentence?

an ironic comment

Can you give another example of Ironic?

He was greeted with ironic cheers from opposition MPs.

What are synonyms for Ironic?

Common alternatives include sarcastic, paradoxical, mocking, contradictory.

What is the opposite of Ironic?

Opposite meanings include straightforward, direct.

What words go with Ironic?

It commonly pairs with be, seem, find something, extremely, fairly, very, be, seem, find something, extremely, fairly, very.

What are common mistakes when using Ironic?

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

How do you pronounce Ironic?

US: /["/aɪˈrɑːnɪk/","/aɪˈrɑːnɪkl/"]/, UK: /["/aɪˈrɒnɪk/","/aɪˈrɒnɪkl/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Ironic?

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.

What CEFR level is Ironic?

"Ironic" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.