What is irony
Irony is a literary or rhetorical device in which there is a contradiction between what is expected or intended and what actually occurs or is said. It can involve humor or sarcasm and is often used to highlight the difference between appearance and reality. There are several types of irony, including situational irony, verbal irony, and dramatic irony.
Irony is a literary device that involves using words or situations in a way that is opposite to their literal or expected meaning. It often expresses a contrast between appearance and reality or highlights the discrepancy between what is expected and what actually happens. Irony can be used to create humor, emphasize a point, or convey a deeper meaning. There are three main types of irony:
1. Verbal irony: This occurs when a speaker or writer says one thing but means the opposite. For example, if someone says "What a beautiful day!" during a thunderstorm, it is verbal irony because they are expressing the opposite of what is actually happening.
2. Situational irony: This refers to a situation in which the outcome is significantly different from what was expected. For instance, if a fire station burns down, it is an unexpected and ironic situation because fire stations are meant to prevent fires, not experience them.
3. Dramatic irony: This occurs when the audience or reader knows something that the characters in a story do not. It creates a sense of tension or suspense. For example, in a horror movie, if the viewers see the killer hiding in a closet while the protagonist walks by, it is dramatic irony because the character is unaware of the danger.