Answered on : 2024-03-10
1. **Definition:** Irony, broadly defined, is the contrast between appearances and reality. It involves a discrepancy between what is expected and what actually happens or is understood[2].
2. **Types of Irony:**
- **Verbal Irony:** A speaker says something, but means the opposite, often for humorous effect[5].
- **Situational Irony:** Events unfold differently than expected, surprising the audience[6].
- **Dramatic Irony:** The audience knows more than the characters, creating tension[2].
3. **Examples:**
- *Verbal Irony:* Saying "What a beautiful day!" during a storm.
- *Situational Irony:* A fire station burns down.
- *Dramatic Irony:* In a play, the audience knows a character's fate, but the character does not[2].
4. **References:**
- [2]: Wikipedia - Irony
- [5]: Oregon State University - What is Irony?
- [6]: BYJU'S - Irony Definition, Types, Uses, and Examples