Ironic: meaning, definitions and examples

Ironic is used when something happens in a way that seems the opposite of what you would expect or something that is funny because it is strange or unexpected.

• It's ironic that the fire station burned down.
• The book about not using technology was written on a computer. Isn't that ironic?

Sarcastic is used to describe a type of humor or remark that says the opposite of what you really mean, often to insult someone or something.

• Wow, you're really good at this, aren't you? he said in a sarcastic tone.
• Sure, because making fun of people is really nice, she replied sarcastically.

Satirical is used to describe work that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or make fun of someone's stupidity or vices, especially in the context of politics.

• The novel is a satirical take on the corruption in modern politics.
• His satirical cartoons go viral for their clever take on social issues.

Use mocking when someone is making fun of or ridiculing someone else, often in a mean-spirited way.

• He made a mocking imitation of her voice.
• The children were mocking the way he walked.

Use when there is a stark contrast between what is expected and what actually happens, often in a humorous or surprising way.

• It's ironic that the fire station burned down.
• I find it ironic that a dentist would have terrible teeth.

Use to describe an occurrence that happens by chance at the same time as another event without any apparent connection.

• It was purely coincidental that we both were at the same restaurant on the same night.
• Their meeting at the airport was completely coincidental.

Use for situations or statements that seem self-contradictory or logically unacceptable, but upon closer inspection, might reveal an underlying truth.

• It's paradoxical that a man who believes in the value of silence became a famous speaker.
• The company's strategy is paradoxical; they aim to reduce product prices while increasing revenue.

Use when something happens suddenly or in a way that you did not anticipate.

• The surprise party was completely unexpected.
• The sudden change in the weather was unexpected.