C1noun2K

Irony

UK /["/ˈaɪrəni/"]/US /["/ˈaɪrəni/"]/

Definition

the funny or strange aspect of a situation that is very different from what you expect; a situation like this

In simple words: A contrast between what is expected and what actually happens.

Examples

  • It is a deep irony that the fire station burned down last night.
  • Her speech was full of irony, making it clear she didn’t truly support the proposal.
  • Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows more than the characters do.
  • The irony of the situation was that the doctor became seriously ill.
  • Verbal irony, where someone says the opposite of what they mean, can be amusing.
  • There is an irony in how the environmentalist’s car broke down due to neglect.
  • Situational irony happened when the police officer was caught committing a crime.

Usage notes

Irony is often used in literature and everyday conversation to highlight contradictions. It's typically appropriate in both casual and formal settings, but be cautious of overusing it, as it may lead to confusion.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'I-RONY' as 'Ironic Reality'. Imagine a firefighter's house burning down.

Collocations

  • great
  • heavy
  • gentle
  • hint
  • touch
  • trace
  • by a… irony
  • a certain irony
  • great
  • heavy
  • gentle
  • hint
  • touch
  • trace
  • by a… irony
  • a certain irony

Synonyms

  • sarcasm
  • paradox
  • contradiction
  • mockery
  • incongruity

Antonyms

  • seriousness
  • sincerity
  • earnestness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with sarcasm, as they are related but distinct.
  • Using 'ironic' inaccurately; not all contradictions are ironic.
  • Overusing irony in serious contexts where clarity is more appropriate.