Tragicomic: meaning, definitions and examples

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tragicomic

 

[ trædʒɪˈkɒmɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

literature, drama

The term 'tragicomic' refers to a genre or work that combines elements of tragedy and comedy. This blend often results in situations that provoke both laughter and sadness simultaneously. Tragicomic narratives may highlight the absurdities of life while also addressing serious themes. Such works challenge audiences to reflect on the complexities of human experience and the juxtaposition of joy and sorrow.

Synonyms

bittersweet, darkly humorous, ironical

Examples of usage

  • His tragicomic novel explores the ups and downs of life.
  • The play was filled with tragicomic moments that left the audience in tears and laughter.
  • She delivered a tragicomic performance that captivated the crowd.
  • Tragicomic characters often find themselves in absurd predicaments.

Translations

Translations of the word "tragicomic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tragicómico

🇮🇳 त्रासदिक कॉमेडी

🇩🇪 tragikomisch

🇮🇩 tragikomedi

🇺🇦 трагicomічний

🇵🇱 tragikomedia

🇯🇵 トラジコメディ

🇫🇷 tragicomique

🇪🇸 tragicómico

🇹🇷 tragikomik

🇰🇷 비극 코미디

🇸🇦 تراجيدي كوميدي

🇨🇿 tragikomický

🇸🇰 tragikomický

🇨🇳 悲喜剧

🇸🇮 tragikomičen

🇮🇸 tragíkomískur

🇰🇿 трагикомикалық

🇬🇪 ტრაგიკომიკური

🇦🇿 tragediya-komediya

🇲🇽 tragicómico

Etymology

The term 'tragicomic' originated in the early 17th century, derived from the combination of 'tragedy' and 'comedy'. Tragedy itself has roots in ancient Greece, where dramatic performances often explored themes of fate, mortality, and the human condition, delivering sobering messages through serious narratives. On the other hand, comedy emerged as a lighter counterpart, focusing on humor and the absurdities of life. The fusion of these two elements reflects a deeper understanding of the human experience, as life often encompasses both tragic and comedic moments. The concept became prominent in literature and theatre, particularly in the works of playwrights like Shakespeare, who skillfully blended these tones, as well as in modern theatre and film. Today, tragicomedy continues to resonate, illustrating the complexities of life in a way that evokes a broad spectrum of emotions.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,340, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.