What is the basic definition of irony?
Full Definition of irony 1a : the use of words to express something other than and especially the opposite of the literal meaning. b : a usually humorous or sardonic literary style or form characterized by irony. c : an ironic expression or utterance.
What are the 4 types of irony definition?
In literature, irony is a deliberate gap between the language used and what is being discussed. Irony results when there is a difference in point of view between a character and the narrator or reader. There are four major types of irony: verbal, dramatic, situational, and cosmic.
Is paradox a type of irony?
The difference between Irony and Paradox is that Irony is referred to real situations or in real conversations where the original meaning is different or mismatching from its intended meaning. A paradox is a statement that contradicts its actual meaning and contains a little bit of truth.
What are the 6 types of irony?
Terms in this set (6)
- Verbal Irony. Sarcasm.
- Situational Irony. The actions of someone based on an expectation that lead directly to the outcome they wish to avoid.
- Dramatic Irony. When the reader of audience is let in on a fact that is unknown to most of the characters.
- Cosmic Irony.
- Historic Irony.
- Socratic Irony.
Which is the best definition of the word irony?
Irony is a literary device or event in which how things seem to be is in fact very different from how they actually are. If this seems like a loose definition, don’t worry—it is. Irony is a broad term that encompasses three different types of irony, each with their own specific definition: verbal irony , dramatic irony, and situational irony.
When does Jonathan Swift use the word irony?
The use of words to mean something very different from what they appear on the surface to mean. Jonathan Swift uses irony in “ A Modest Proposal ” when he suggests the eating of babies as a solution to overpopulation and starvation in Ireland.
How is irony used in Socratic and dramatic irony?
Socratic irony is a tool used in debating; dramatic irony is what happens when the audience realizes that Romeo and Juliet’s plans will go awry. The third, and debated, use of irony regards what’s called situational irony.
How is the gift of the Magi an example of irony?
It is an example of situational irony when, in the O. Henry story ” The Gift of the Magi ,” a young wife cuts off her hair in order to buy her husband a chain for his prized watch, but the husband sells his watch to buy his wife a comb for her beautiful hair.