I think it’s helpful to know that there are several different types of irony, and that might be why people are confused. It’s always used for drama or humor.
Dramatic irony is what happens in a story when the audience knows more than a character. Think horror movies! It can also be used in a humorous way.
Situational irony is when the opposite of what’s expected happens, for humorous or dramatic effect. For example, the hero’s been holding on to an ancient sword for years and finally pulls it out to use it only to realize it’s broken.
Verbal irony is when someone says one thing but means another, again for humorous or dramatic effect. Sarcasm is an example, satire is another. We use verbal irony all the time.
I think it’s helpful to know that there are several different types of irony, and that might be why people are confused. It’s always used for drama or humor.
Dramatic irony is what happens in a story when the audience knows more than a character. Think horror movies! It can also be used in a humorous way.
Situational irony is when the opposite of what’s expected happens, for humorous or dramatic effect. For example, the hero’s been holding on to an ancient sword for years and finally pulls it out to use it only to realize it’s broken.
Verbal irony is when someone says one thing but means another, again for humorous or dramatic effect. Sarcasm is an example, satire is another. We use verbal irony all the time.