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Word

irony

noun B2
UK /ˈaɪə.ɹə.ni/
US /ˈaɪ.ɹə.ni/

Meanings

noun

A contrast between what is expected and what actually happens, often in a surprising way.

irony: A contrast between what is expected and what actually happens, often in a surprising way.
noun

A way of speaking in which someone says the opposite of what they really mean, often to be funny or critical.

irony: A way of speaking in which someone says the opposite of what they really mean, often to be funny or critical.

irony: Irony is a situation or remark where the real meaning or outcome is different from what is expected or said.

Definition

Irony is a situation or remark where the real meaning or outcome is different from what is expected or said.

Irony happens when there is a contrast between appearance and reality. Often, what someone says is different from what they truly mean, or events turn out in an unexpected, opposite way. People use irony for humor, criticism, or to highlight a surprising truth.

Examples

  • The irony is that he forgot his password right after setting a new one.
  • She smiled at the irony of complaining about being too busy while scrolling on her phone.
  • His speech was full of irony, but some people took it literally.
  • There was a strange irony in winning the award after years of being ignored.

Common mistake

Learners often use irony to mean simple bad luck or coincidence, but irony requires a clear contrast between expectation and reality (or between words and intent).

More at B2 level

More nouns