Whether you are familiar with the concept of irony in your own language or any other language that you speak) or not, coming across an ironic phrase in English might fly right over your head, and you are not alone!
Irony is a big part of cultural concepts in the English language. For some understanding of irony in English comes naturally, for others it’s a long (but nevertheless, fun) process.
WHAT IS IRONY?
Irony, to put it simply, is an expression communicated through words that would usually be considered of the opposite meaning. In other words, whatever is said with irony is not true, however, the opposite is. It is rather complicated but once you pick up on it, you might start noticing it everywhere you go.
Irony is usually accompanied by certain social clues, such as specific body language, intonation and others. There is even such a thing as an ironic tone, used to express when a person is deliberately using a snarky voice to get across a message, which would have been delivered just as well without the hint of irony. It is similar to, but not exactly the same as sarcasm.
WHY IS IRONY USED?
Irony can be used for several reasons such as creating a comic effect, awkward situations, confusion or simply for amusement and more. When using irony, a person is employing a rhetorical language device usually for the purpose of establishing their own stance.
For example, when used in creating a comic effect, both parties of the conversation are in on the ironic aspect of the words, therefore being able to share the humorous qualities of the situation. However, for awkward situations or confusion it is almost always necessary for at least one party to be unaware of the irony being used in the conversation for confusion and awkwardness to spread.
In most cases, the person using irony still achieves amusement whether from the comical effect that was created thanks to rhetorical language or the awkwardness of self-ignited situation.
HOW TO RECOGNIZE IRONY?
Irony can be recognized by paying attention to body language and intonation, among others. The most telling aspects of body language that may indicate the use of irony are eye-rolling, cheek-biting, winking, giggling, head shaking and similar. A person using irony usually subconsciously will employ at least one of the many telling body language signs hence giving away the ironic qualities of their speech. But it is possible that they will be able to use irony without any hints whatsoever, that usually requires a lot of practice.
Intonation is also a big sign that might give irony away. Most commonly, people tend to lengthen their words while leaving smaller gaps in-between for a snarkier and wittier look as if waiting for you to catch up.
EXAMPLES OF IRONY
Some of the most common uses of verbal irony include but are not limited to:
Lucky me! or Fantastic! When something goes wrong.
It is clear as mud, when something is confusing.
Of course, when really meaning ‘no’.