irony

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New2grammar

#532463 Wed, 25 Jun 08 05:45 PM

The more I try to understand the meaning of irony, the more confused I get.

If you in a black suit stand in front of a white wall, is it ironic?

If a short girl walks in 4 inch high heels, is it ironic?

If a black guy in a black suit gives a speech about black people, is it ironic.

If a woman talks about how faitful her husband is when her husband is seen intimate with a girl, is it ironic?
Thanks in advance.

New2grammar

Joined on Tue, Nov 21 2006

Veteran Member (7,670)

Who wants to go sailing around the world with me?

Irony

Avangi

#532524 Wed, 25 Jun 08 07:54 PM

What seems to be referred to as "verbal irony" is not the irony I learned as a child, which I would call "situation irony." I vote for number four. I suppose if you look hard enough, you can find irony in all of them. (contrasts/opposites)

The third one is an interesting challenge for those who feel opposites is the key.

In your opinion, is humor an essential ingredient?

- A.

Avangi

Joined on Mon, Nov 19 2007

Senior Member (3,289)

". . . le plaisir delicieux et toujours nouveau d'une occupation inutile." - Henri de Regnier

Irony, Numbers

New2grammar

#532528 Wed, 25 Jun 08 08:01 PM

I don't think so. My dictionary says something like there is contrast, it can be ironic. However, I don't know what the extent is. I mean, any contrast will do?

This apple looks like a watermelon. Isn't it ironic?

I'm struggling to understand when it can be used and when it can't.