Types of irony

Front

What is irony?

Back

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

Front

What is verbal irony?

Back

Verbal irony occurs when a speaker says one thing but means another, often the opposite. For example, saying 'Great weather we're having!' during a storm.

Front

What is dramatic irony?

Back

Dramatic irony is when the audience knows more about a situation than the characters do, creating tension or humor. For example, in a horror movie, the audience knows the killer is in the house, but the character does not.

Front

What is situational irony?

Back

Situational irony occurs when there is a discrepancy between what is expected to happen and what actually happens. For example, a fire station burns down.

Front

What is cosmic irony?

Back

Cosmic irony, or irony of fate, refers to the idea that fate or the universe is manipulating events to create an ironic outcome, often highlighting human helplessness.

Front

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

Back

This is verbal irony because the speaker is expressing the opposite of what they truly feel.

Front

Example of dramatic irony: In Romeo and Juliet, the audience knows they are from feuding families, but they do not.

Back

This creates tension as the audience anticipates the tragic outcome.

Front

Example of situational irony: A police officer gets arrested for breaking the law.

Back

This is situational irony because the expected role of a police officer is to uphold the law.

Front

How does verbal irony differ from sarcasm?

Back

Verbal irony is not always meant to mock or convey contempt, while sarcasm often has a mocking tone.

Front

What is an example of cosmic irony?

Back

A man buys a lottery ticket every week, finally wins, but dies the day before the drawing.