Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In an ironic manner: Used to describe when something is said or done with a tone or style that conveys the opposite of the literal meaning, often to express humor, sarcasm, or criticism.
   • Contrary to plan or expectation: Used to highlight a situation where the outcome is the opposite of what was intended or what would seem appropriate.

Usage Examples

• In an ironic manner:

  • "Oh, wonderful," she said ironically when she saw the messy room.
  • He smiled ironically, knowing his compliment would not be believed.

• Contrary to plan or expectation:

  • Ironically, the fire station burned down.
  • He worked hard to avoid his father's career, but ironically, he ended up in the same job.

Advanced Usage

• Used to introduce a paradoxical outcome: Often appears at the beginning of a sentence to frame a surprising or contradictory result.
  • Ironically, the safety feature caused the accident.
• Used to comment on a situation's inherent contradiction: Can be placed within a sentence to emphasize the irony.
  • The help, ironically, came from the person he trusted the least.

Variants and Related Words

• Ironic (adjective): Characterized by or constituting irony.
  • It was ironic that the champion of free speech was silenced.
• Irony (noun): A state of affairs or an event that seems deliberately contrary to what one expects.
  • The irony of the situation was not lost on anyone.

Synonyms

• Sarcastically: In a sarcastic manner (specifically for verbal irony with intent to mock).
• Paradoxically: In a seemingly self-contradictory way.
• Unexpectedly: In a way that is not expected.

Related Phrases

• With irony: Expressing or characterized by irony.
  • He noted with irony that his vacation was rained out.
• The irony is: A phrase used to point out an ironic situation.
  • The irony is that he became what he despised.

Adverb

1. in an ironic manner
   • she began to mimic him ironically
2. contrary to plan or expectation
   • ironically, he ended up losing money under his own plan