Irony

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What is irony?

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Irony is a literary device where the intended meaning is different from the actual meaning. It often involves a contrast between expectations and reality.

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What is situational irony?

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Situational irony occurs when there is a discrepancy between what is expected to happen and what actually happens.

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Example of situational irony: A famous lion tamer being eaten by a lion.

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This is an example of situational irony because the outcome is the opposite of what one would expect.

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What is dramatic irony?

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Dramatic irony is when the audience knows something that the characters do not, creating tension or humor.

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Example of dramatic irony: A robber sneaking down an alley, unaware that a policeman is waiting for him.

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This is dramatic irony because the audience knows the policeman is there, but the robber does not.

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What is verbal irony?

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Verbal irony occurs when someone says the opposite of what they really mean, often for humorous or emphatic effect.

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Example of verbal irony: Saying 'Oh, great!' when something bad happens.

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This is verbal irony because the speaker means the opposite of what they are saying.

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What is karmic irony?

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Karmic irony refers to a situation where a person's actions lead to their own downfall, often in a way that is fitting or just.

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Example of karmic irony: A thief getting robbed.

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This is karmic irony because the thief's actions lead to a fitting consequence.

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What is the significance of Alanis Morissette's song 'Ironic'?

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The song lists various situations that are often mistaken for irony, highlighting common misconceptions about the term.