Ironic

usgb/aɪˈrɑːnɪk/
adjective

A situation is called ironic if it's opposite of what was expected.

It's ironic that he forgot his wedding anniversary when he's always reminding others to remember theirs
Visual representation of "ironic" - A situation is called ironic if it's opposite of what was expected

Often appears as...

  • dramatically ironic
  • situational ironic
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "ironic"
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Expectation Mismatch

Use 'ironic' to highlight gaps between expectations and reality, often with a twist of fate.

Illustration for Expectation Mismatch
It's ironic how the lifeguard needed to be rescued.
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Unintended Outcome

Ironic situations can involve actions that inadvertently produce the opposite of what was intended.

Illustration for Unintended Outcome
He locked his keys in his car at the locksmith convention; that's ironic.
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Literary Device

'Ironic' is often used in literature to create contrast and provoke thought by defying expectations.

Illustration for Literary Device
It was ironic in the story that the fire station burned down.
Visual representation of the word "Ironic"

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