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ironic

[aɪˈrɒnɪk]

ironic Definition

happening in a way contrary to what is expected, often with an amusing or sarcastic twist.

Using ironic: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ironic" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    It's ironic that the firefighter's house burned down.

  • Example

    The fact that I am afraid of heights and work as a pilot is ironic.

  • Example

    It's ironic that the company's slogan is 'Save Money, Live Better' when their employees are underpaid.

ironic Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using ironic

  • a situation where events happen in a way that is contrary to what was expected or desired

    Example

    The irony of fate was that he became a millionaire after losing everything in a fire.

  • a situation where something bad happens to someone in a way that is contrary to what they deserve or expect

    Example

    It was a cruel irony that the man who saved hundreds of lives died in a car accident.

  • a sudden and unexpected change in circumstances that is contrary to what was expected or desired

    Example

    It was an ironic twist of fate that the woman who hated dogs ended up adopting a stray puppy.

Phrases with ironic

  • an unexpected or surprising turn of events that is contrary to what was expected

    Example

    The movie had an ironic twist at the end that left the audience stunned.

  • a situation where two events happen at the same time in a way that seems unlikely or improbable

    Example

    It was an ironic coincidence that the two strangers who met on the plane were both named Jack.

  • humor that involves saying the opposite of what is meant, often in a sarcastic or mocking tone

    Example

    His ironic humor was lost on the audience, who didn't understand his jokes.

Origins of ironic

from Greek 'eironeia', meaning 'dissimulation' or 'feigned ignorance'

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Summary: ironic in Brief

The term 'ironic' [aɪˈrɒnɪk] refers to situations that happen in a way contrary to what is expected, often with a sarcastic or amusing twist. Examples include 'It's ironic that the firefighter's house burned down,' and 'It's ironic that the company's slogan is 'Save Money, Live Better' when their employees are underpaid.' 'Ironic' extends into phrases like 'ironic twist,' and idioms like 'the irony of fate,' denoting unexpected or contrary events.

How do native speakers use this expression?