Irónico (en. Ironic)

/iˈɾoniko/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
adjective
That is expressed or manifested contrary to what is considered reality.
It is ironic that he criticized others for being punctual when he always arrives late.
Es irónico que criticara a otros por ser puntuales, cuando él siempre llega tarde.
That causes or provokes reflection from the contradiction between what is expected and what actually occurs.
The situation was ironic, as the best student failed the exam.
La situación fue irónica, ya que el mejor estudiante falló en el examen.
That uses irony to convey a message or a critique.
His comment was ironic, in a mocking tone that no one understood.
Su comentario fue irónico, en un tono burlón que nadie entendió.

Etymology

From the Greek 'eironeía', meaning 'disguise or deception'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

irony of life
Unexpected situations that highlight a contradiction.
ironía de la vida
ironic use
Use of irony to express a comment.
uso irónico
ironic footprint
An impact or effect left by an unexpected situation.
huella irónica

Related Words

irony
Rhetorical figure that consists of expressing the opposite of what one feels or thinks.
ironía
sarcasm
A form of irony that expresses contempt or mockery.
sarcasmo
paradox
Contradiction that reveals a deeper truth.
paradoja

Slang Meanings

Sarcastic comment.
That kind of humor is very ironic, and is often misinterpreted.
Ese tipo de humor es muy irónico, muchas veces se malinterpreta.
Ironic situation.
It is ironic that by saying you don't like the rain, it is raining today.
Es irónico que al decir que no te gusta la lluvia, hoy esté lloviendo.