What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ironically
Example
Ironically, the fire station burned down.
Example
He spent his life fighting against smoking, but ironically died of lung cancer.
unexpectedly
Example
She unexpectedly received a promotion at work.
Example
The weather turned unexpectedly cold and rainy.
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unexpectedly is more commonly used than ironically in everyday language, as it is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ironically and unexpectedly?
Both ironically and unexpectedly are considered formal words, but unexpectedly is more commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.
