i·ro·ny [ahy-ruh-nee, ahy-er-]
noun, plural i·ro·nies.
- the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning:
- Literature:
- a technique of indicating, as through character or plot development, an intention or attitude opposite to that which is actually or ostensibly stated.
- (especially in contemporary writing) a manner of organizing a work so as to give full expression to contradictory or complementary impulses, attitudes, etc., especially as a means of indicating detachment from a subject, theme, or emotion.
- Socratic irony:
- noun: pretended ignorance in discussion.
- philosophy a means by which the pretended ignorance of a skillful questioner leads the person answering to expose his own ignorance
- Dramatic irony:
- noun: irony that is inherent in speeches or a situation of a drama and is understood by the audience but not grasped by the characters in the play.
- an outcome of events contrary to what was, or might have been, expected.
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