figures of speech irony definition and examples

Definition and Examples of Irony (Figure of Speech)

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• An Introduction to Punctuation
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

Irony is the use of words to convey the opposite of their literal meaning. Similarly, irony may be a statement or situation where the meaning is contradicted by the appearance or presentation of the idea.

Adjective: ironic or ironical . Also known as  eironeia , illusio , and the dry mock .

The Three Kinds of Irony

Three kinds of irony are commonly recognized:

• Verbal irony is a trope in which the intended meaning of a statement differs from the meaning that the words appear to express.
• Situational irony involves an incongruity between what is expected or intended and what actually occurs.
• Dramatic irony is an effect produced by a narrative in which the audience knows more about the present or future circumstances than a character in the story.

In light of these different varieties of irony, Jonathan Tittler has concluded that irony

"has meant and means so many different things to different people that rarely is there a meeting of minds as to its particular sense on a given occasion."

(Quoted by Frank Stringfellow in The Meaning of Irony , 1994.)

From the Greek, "feigned ignorance"

Pronunciation:

Irony in academics.

Academicians and others have explained irony in its various forms, including how to use it and how others have used it, as these quotes show.

D.C. Muecke

"Irony may be used as a rhetorical device to enforce one's meaning. It may be used . . . as a satiric device to attack a point of view or to expose folly, hypocrisy, or vanity. It may be used as a heuristic device to lead one's readers to see that things are not so simple or certain as they seem, or perhaps not so complex or doubtful as they seem. It is probable that most irony is rhetorical, satirical, or heuristic. ... "In the first place irony is a double-layered or two-story phenomenon. ... In the second place, there is always some kind of opposition that may take the form of contradiction, incongruity, or incompatibility. ... In the third place, there is in irony an element of 'innocence.'" — The Compass of Irony . Methuen, 1969

R. Kent Rasmussen

"David Wilson, the title character of Pudd'nhead Wilson , is a master of irony. In fact, his use of irony permanently marks him. When he first arrives in Dawson's Landing in 1830, he makes an ironic remark that the villagers cannot understand. Distracted by the annoying yelping of an unseen dog, he says, 'I wished I owned half of that dog.' When asked why, he replies, 'Because I would kill my half.' He does not really want to own half the dog, and he probably does not really want to kill it; he merely wants to silence it and knows killing half the dog would kill the whole animal and achieve the desired effect. His remark is a simple example of irony, and the failure of the villagers to understand it causes them immediately to brand Wilson a fool and nickname him 'pudd'nhead.' The very title of the novel is, therefore, based on irony, and that irony is compounded by the fact that Wilson is anything but a fool." — Bloom's How to Write About Mark Twain . Infobase, 2008

Bryan Garner

"A classic example of irony is Mark Antony's speech in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar . Although Antony declares, 'I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him,' and declares that the assassins are 'honorable men,' he means just the opposite." — Garner's Modern American Usage . Oxford University Press, 2009

Barry Brummett

"It is sometimes said that we live in an age of irony. Irony in this sense may be found, for example, all throughout The Daily Show with Jon Stewart . Suppose you hear a political candidate give a terribly long speech, one that rambles on and on without end. Afterward, you might turn to a friend sitting next to you, roll your eyes, and say, 'Well, that was short and to the point, wasn't it?' You are being ironic. You are counting on your friend to turn the literal meaning of your expression, to read it as exactly the opposite of what your words actually mean. ... "When irony works, it helps to cement social bonds and mutual understanding because the speaker and hearer of irony both know to turn the utterance, and they know that the other one knows they will turn the utterance. ... "Irony is a kind of winking at each other, as we all understand the game of meaning reversal that is being played." — Techniques of Close Reading . Sage, 2010

"Irony has always been a primary tool the under-powered use to tear at the over-powered in our culture. But now irony has become the bait that media corporations use to appeal to educated consumers. ... It's almost an ultimate irony that those who say they don't like TV will sit and watch TV as long as the hosts of their favorite shows act like they don't like TV, either. Somewhere in this swirl of droll poses and pseudo-insights, irony itself becomes a kind of mass therapy for a politically confused culture. It offers a comfortable space where complicity doesn't feel like complicity. It makes you feel like you are counter-cultural while never requiring you to leave the mainstream culture it has so much fun teasing. We are happy enough with this therapy that we feel no need to enact social change." — Review of The Daily Show , 2001

Jon Winokur

"Alanis Morissette's 'Ironic,' in which situations purporting to be ironic are merely sad, random, or annoying (a traffic jam when you're late, a no-smoking sign on your cigarette break) perpetuates widespread misuse of the word and outrages irony prescriptivists . It is, of course, ironic that 'Ironic' is an unironic song about irony. Bonus irony: 'Ironic' is widely cited as an example of how Americans don't get irony, despite the fact that Alanis Morissette is Canadian." — The Big Book of Irony . St. Martin's, 2007

R. Jay Magill, Jr.

"Direct expression, with no tricks, gimmickry, or irony, has come to be interpreted ironically because the default interpretive apparatus says, 'He can't really mean THAT!' When a culture becomes ironic about itself en masse , simple statements of brutal fact, simple judgments of hate or dislike become humorous because they unveil the absurdity, 'friendliness,' and caution of normal public expression. It's funny because it's true. Honestly. We're all upside down now." — Chic Ironic Bitterness . University of Michigan Press, 2007

Irony in Popular Cultue

Irony also has a large presence in popular culture—books, movies, and television shows. These quotes show the concept in use in a variety of formats.

John Hall Wheelock

"A planet doesn't explode of itself," said drily The Martian astronomer, gazing off into the air— "That they were able to do it is proof that highly Intelligent beings must have been living there." — "Earth"

Raymond Huntley and Eliot Makeham

Kampenfeldt: This is a grave matter, a very grave matter. It has just been reported to me that you've been expressing sentiments hostile to the Fatherland. Schwab: What, me sir? Kampenfeldt: I warn you, Schwab, such treasonable conduct will lead you to a concentration camp. Schwab: But sir, what did I say? Kampenfeldt: You were distinctly heard to remark, "This is a fine country to live in." Schwab: Oh, no, sir. There's some mistake. No, what I said was, "This is a fine country to live in." Kampenfeldt: Huh? You sure? Schwab: Yes sir. Kampenfeldt: I see. Well, in future don't make remarks that can be taken two ways. — Night Train to Munich , 1940

Peter Sellers

"Gentlemen, you can't fight in here! This is the War Room." — As President Merkin Muffley in Dr. Strangelove, 1964

William Zinsser

"It is a fitting irony that under Richard Nixon, launder became a dirty word."

Alan Bennett

"We're conceived in irony. We float in it from the womb. It's the amniotic fluid. It's the silver sea. It's the waters at their priest-like task, washing away guilt and purpose and responsibility. Joking but not joking. Caring but not caring. Serious but not serious." — Hilary in The Old Country , 1977

Thomas Carlyle

"An ironic man, with his sly stillness, and ambuscading ways, more especially an ironic young man, from whom it is least expected, may be viewed as a pest to society." Sartor Resartus: The Life and Opinions of Herr Teufelsdrockh , 1833-34

"Glee"

Rachel Berry: Mr. Schuester, do you have any idea how ridiculous it is to give the lead solo in "Sit Down, You're Rocking the Boat" to a boy in a wheelchair? Artie Abrams: I think Mr. Schue is using irony to enhance the performance. Rachel Berry: There's nothing ironic about show choir! — Pilot episode, 2009

"Seinfeld"

​ Woman: I started riding these trains in the '40s. Those days a man would give up his seat for a woman. Now we're liberated and we have to stand. Elaine: It's ironic. Woman: What's ironic? Elaine: This, that we've come all this way, we have made all this progress, but you know we've lost the little things, the niceties. Woman: No, I mean what does ironic mean? Elaine: Oh.​ — "The Subway," Jan. 8 1992

Sideshow Bob

"I'm aware of the irony of appearing on TV in order to decry it." — The Simpsons

Calvin Trillin

"Math was my worst subject because I could never persuade the teacher that my answers were meant ironically."

The Men Who Stare at Goats,

Lyn Cassady: It's okay, you can "attack" me. Bob Wilton: What's with the quotation fingers? It's like saying I'm only capable of ironic attacking or something.​ — 2009

Irony Deficiency

Irony deficiency  is an informal term for the inability to recognize, comprehend, and/or utilize irony—that is, a tendency to interpret  figurative language  in a literal way.

Jonah Goldberg

"Mobsters are reputedly huge fans of  The Godfather . They don’t see it as a tale of individual moral corruption. They see it as a nostalgia trip to better days for the mob." — "The Irony of Irony."  National Review , April 28, 1999

"Irony deficiency is directly proportional to the strength of the political commitment or religious fervor. True believers of all persuasions are irony deficient. ... "Brutal dictators are irony deficient—take Hitler, Stalin, Kim Jong-il, and Saddam Hussein, a world-class vulgarian whose art collection consisted of kitsch paintings displayed unironically." — The Big Book of Irony . Macmillan, 2007

Swami Beyondananda

"Here is something ironic: We live at a time when our diets are richer in irony than ever before in human history, yet millions of us suffer from that silent crippler, irony deficiency ... not so much a deficiency in irony itself, but an inability to utilize the abundance of irony all around us." — Duck Soup for the Soul . Hysteria, 1999

Roy Blount, Jr.

"Will people who detect a lack of irony in other cultures never stop to consider that this may be a sign of their own irony deficiency? Maybe it's defensible when the apes detect a lack of irony in Charlton Heston in  Planet of the Apes , but not when, say, Brits detect it in, say, Americans as a race . ... The point of irony, after all, is to say things behind people's backs to their faces. If you look around the poker table and can't tell who the pigeon is, it's you." — "How to Talk Southern."  The New York Times , Nov. 21, 2004

• What Is Rhetorical Irony?
• Definition and Examples of Situational Irony
• What Is the Figure of Speech Antiphrasis?
• Verbal Irony - Definition and Examples
• Figurative Meaning
• Brief Introductions to Common Figures of Speech
• Understanding Subtext
• Paralepsis (Rhetoric)
• Definition and Examples of Sarcasm
• Figure of Thought in Rhetoric
• Definition and Examples of Dramatic Irony
• Definition and Examples of Litotes in English Grammar
• 100 Awfully Good Examples of Oxymorons
• The Four Master Tropes in Rhetoric
• What "Literal Meaning" Really Means
• 20 Figures of Speech That We Never Heard About in School

Literary Devices

Literary devices, terms, and elements, definition of irony.

As a literary device, irony is a contrast or incongruity between expectations for a situation and what is reality. This can be a difference between the surface meaning of something that is said and the underlying meaning. It can also be a difference between what might be expected to happen and what actually occurs. The definition of irony can further be divided into three main types: verbal, dramatic, and situational. We describe these types in detail below.

The word “irony” comes from the Greek character Eiron, who was an underdog and used his wit to overcome a stronger character. The Greek word eironeía derived from this character and came to mean “dissimulation” or “purposely affected ignorance.” The word then entered Latin as ironia, and eventually became common as a figure of speech in English in the 16th century.

Irony is sometimes confused with events that are just unfortunate coincidences. For example, Alanis Morrissette’s song “Ironic” contains many events that are not ironic in any sense. She cites “rain on your wedding day” and “a traffic jam when you’re already late” as ironic situations, yet these are merely bad luck.

Types of Irony

Verbal irony.

Verbal irony takes place when the speaker says something in sharp contrast to his or her actual meaning. The speaker often makes a statement that seems very direct, yet indicates that the opposite is in fact true, or what the speaker really means. Looking at Alanis Morrissette’s “Ironic” again, the one true instance of irony comes when the man whose plane is going down says, “Well, isn’t this nice.” Clearly, the plane crash is anything but nice, and thus this utterance conveys the opposite of the man’s true feelings. Unlike dramatic and situational irony , verbal irony is always intentional on the part of the speaker.

Verbal irony can also consist of “ironic similes”, which are comparisons in which the two things are not alike at all. For example, “as soft as sandpaper” or “as warm as ice.” These similes mean that the thing in question is actually not soft or warm at all. The author Daniel Handler (who writes with the pen name Lemony Snicket) takes ironic similes to an extreme by qualifying them so they actually become real comparisons. For example: “Today was a very cold and bitter day, as cold and bitter as a cup of hot chocolate, if the cup of hot chocolate had vinegar added to it and were placed in a refrigerator for several hours.”

Dramatic Irony

Dramatic irony occurs when the audience has more information than one or more characters in a work of literature. This literary device originated in Greek tragedy and often leads to tragic outcomes. For example, in Shakespeare’s Othello, the audience is aware that Othello’s best friend Iago is villainous and attempting to bring Othello down. The audience is also aware that Desdemona has been faithful, though Othello doesn’t know this. The audience can foresee the imminent disaster.

There are three stages of dramatic irony: installation, exploitation, and resolution. In the case of Othello, the installation is when Iago persuades Othello to suspect that Desdemona is having an affair with a man named Cassio. Iago then exploits the situation by planting Desdemona’s handkerchief, a gift from Othello, in Cassio’s room. The resolution is only after Othello has murdered Desdemona when her friend Emilia reveals Iago’s scheme.

Situational Irony

Situational irony consists of a situation in which the outcome is very different from what was expected. There are contradictions and contrasts present in cases of situational irony. For example, in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, the citizens of the Emerald City assume that Oz is great and all-powerful, yet the man behind the curtain is revealed to be an old man with no special powers.

Other types of irony:

• Cosmic Irony : Cosmic irony, also known as “irony of fate”, is present in stories that contain gods who have different agendas than humans. These gods, or the Fates, may play with the lives of humans for their own amusement. The irony lies in contrast between what the humans expect and what actually happens. Though this is most common in Greek legends, it is also present in Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the d’Urbervilles where the immortals play with Tess’s life.
• Historical Irony : Historical irony relates to real events that happened that, when seen in retrospect, had vastly different outcomes than predicted at the time. For example, Chinese alchemists discovered gunpowder when looking for a way to create immortality. The result of their discovery was the opposite of what they were looking for.
• Socratic Irony : The philosopher Socrates would pretend to be ignorant about the topic under debate to draw out the nonsensical arguments of his opponent. This is particularly evident in the Platonic dialogues. This technique is an example of dramatic irony because Socrates pretended to have less information than he really did.

Difference between Irony and Sarcasm

Though there are many similarities between verbal irony and sarcasm , they are not equivalent. However, there are many dissenting opinions about how, exactly, they are different. For example, the Encyclopedia Britannica simply explains that sarcasm is non-literary irony. Others have argued that while someone employing verbal irony says the opposite of what that person means, sarcasm is direct speech that is aggressive humor. For example, when Winston Churchill told Bessie Braddock that “I shall be sober in the morning, and you will still be ugly,” he was being sarcastic and not employing any irony.

Common Examples of Irony

• Verbal irony : “What a pleasant day” (when it is raining heavily)
• Situational irony : Referring to WWI as “the war to end all wars”
• Situational irony : In 1925 when the New York Times declared that the crossword puzzle was a craze that was “dying out fast”
• Dramatic irony : The movie “The Truman Show”, where only Truman doesn’t know that he’s being filmed at all times

Examples of Irony in Literature

Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare

In this famous love story the audience can foresee the tragic ending long before Romeo and Juliet themselves know what’s going to happen. At the end of the play, Romeo finds Juliet and believes her to be dead though the audience knows she’s taken a sleeping potion. Romeo kills himself with this false knowledge. Juliet then wakes up and, finding Romeo truly dead, kills herself as well. This irony example is one of dramatic irony as the audience has more information than the characters.

MARK ANTONY: But Brutus says he was ambitious; / And Brutus is an honourable man.

( Julius Caesar by Shakespeare)

In this quote from Julius Caesar, Mark Antony is seemingly praising Brutus after the assassination of Julius Caesar. However, this example of irony is one of verbal irony, since Mark Antony is in fact implying that Brutus is neither ambitious nor honorable.

“The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry

In this short story, a young, poor couple struggle with what to buy each other for Christmas. The woman cuts her hair and sells it to buy a watchband for her husband. Meanwhile, the husband sells his watch face to buy combs for his wife’s hair. This is an example of situational irony, since the outcome is the opposite of what both parties expect.

“The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

In this short story, and later in the Disney adaptation, a mermaid falls in love with a prince and saves him from drowning. Desperate to be with him, the mermaid makes a deal with a sea witch to trade her voice for human legs. Though the prince is charmed by the mermaid he doesn’t realize who she really is because she no longer has a voice. This is an example of dramatic irony where the audience has more information than the prince.

Test Your Knowledge of Irony

1. Choose the best irony definition: A. An unfortunate coincidence in which the worst possible ending comes to pass. B. A contrast between expectations for what is going to happen and what actually does happen. C. A biting comment meant to be both humorous and true.

2. Is the following an example of situational, dramatic, or verbal irony?

In Oedipus Rex, Oedipus kills his own father without realizing that the man is actually his father. This act brings on a plague and Oedipus swears that he will murder the man responsible, not knowing that he himself is responsible.

A. Dramatic irony B. Situational irony C. Verbal irony

3. American President John F. Kennedy’s final reported conversation was with a woman who announced, “Mr. President, you can’t say that Dallas doesn’t love you.” JFK agreed, “That’s very obvious.” Why is this an example of irony?

A. The event was very tragic, and thus it was ironic. B. JFK was aware that he was in danger, and thus employed verbal irony when he asserted that Dallas must love him, knowing this wasn’t the case. C. In retrospect, this conversation was ironic because the outcome of the situation was completely at odds with what anyone would have expected to happen.

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Irony: definition, types, and examples

Holly Stanley

“That’s so ironic!” We’ve all probably uttered these words at some point. In fact, you probably hear “isn’t it ironic?” all the time. Irony is one of the English language’s most misused and abused words. 

Irony has become synonymous with coincidence, bad luck, and pleasant surprises. But most things in life aren’t ironic . 

So if coincidences, bad luck, and unusual situations aren’t, what is ironic ? Let’s track down the misused word and uncover what situations it pertains to. 

Irony definition

The use of irony shows the contrast or incongruity between how things appear and how they are in reality. The remark “how ironic” indicates a meaning that’s the opposite of its precise meaning. 

In an ironic phrase, one thing is said, while another thing is meant. For example, if it were a cold, rainy gray day, you might say, “What a beautiful day!” Or, alternatively, if you were suffering from a bad bout of food poisoning, you might say, “Wow, I feel great today.”

These are both examples of irony –– verbal irony, to be precise –– the most frequently used type of irony (more on that later.)

Where does the word irony come from? 

Looking at irony’s origins can help with understanding how to best use the word. The word irony comes from the Latin ironia , meaning “feigned ignorance,” and previously from the Greek eironeia . Eiron, a Greek comic, was an intelligent underdog who used his wit to triumph over the egotistical character Alazon.

Since irony describes an outcome that contrasts with the originally expected results, you’ll see that writers generally use irony to build tension, create humor, or as a plot twist. 

When is something not ironic? 

When pinpointing the definition of irony , it can be helpful to look at when situations are incorrectly labeled as ironic . Irony is often used as a synonym for a caustic remark, something that’s interesting, or sarcastic.

What about the song Ironic ? 

Even singer Alanis Morissette got the definition wrong in her hit 1995 single “Ironic.” In fact, the criticism of her song was so strong, she had to clarify that she wasn’t technically trying to say that every line of the song was ironic.

Let’s take a closer look at Morissette’s timeless song lyrics:

It’s like rain on your wedding day,

It’s a free ride when you’ve already paid,

It’s the good advice that you just didn’t take.

While it could be considered bad luck, rain on a wedding day isn’t ironic , since it’s not as though it’s a given that every wedding day will have perfect sunny weather.

In a similar vein, a free ride when you’ve already paid or not taking good advice isn’t ironic either. The former is unusual and the latter is something that’s interesting.

Types of irony

To help you better understand irony and how to use it in your writing, we’ll dive into five different types.

Verbal irony 

Verbal irony is when the intended meaning of a phrase is the opposite of what is meant. It’s a figure of speech used to emphasize the contrast in meanings. It’s often used as a way of injecting witty humor into someone’s speech or writing. 

There are many English expressions that epitomize verbal irony. Here are a few:

•  “Fat chance!”

•  “Clear as mud”

•  “As soft as concrete”

Verbal irony works best as a literary technique when the reader already knows the initial concepts. For instance, it’s common knowledge that concrete is hard, and mud is opaque.

As you might imagine, an ironic understatement creates contrast by undermining the impact of something, despite the subject itself being quite severe. 

In J.D. Salinger’s novel, The Catcher in the Rye , the character Holden Caulfield says, “I have to have this operation. It isn’t very serious. I have this tiny little tumor on the brain.”

Of course, having a brain tumor is a serious health issue, which Holden downplays in this excerpt. 

Alternatively, an ironic overstatement makes something insignificant sound like a bigger deal than it is to highlight how minor it is. Statements like these are figurative language and are the opposite of their literal meaning.

Say you go for a job interview, but it’s a trainwreck because you spill coffee on your brand-new suit, are 20 minutes late, and forget the interviewer’s name. Your partner asks you how it went and you say, “Aced it, best interview of my life” –– that’s an ironic overstatement.

If verbal irony sounds like it’s pretty familiar, it’s because sarcasm is actually a form of verbal irony (more on that later.) 

Dramatic irony 

A favorite in many famous movies and books, dramatic irony is a literary device where the reader or spectator knows critical information but the characters don’t. 

One of the most famous examples of literary dramatic irony is in O. Henry’s short story, “The Gift of the Magi.” A recently married couple chooses independently to sacrifice and sell what means most to them to buy a Christmas gift for the other. 

But in a twist of fate, the gifts they receive from each other are meant for the prized possessions they just sold. Although their sacrifices show the love they have for one another, the gifts they receive are actually useless.

Dramatic irony is a staple in horror movies. For example, the main character hides under the bed where the killer is hiding (the audience knows the killer is there but the protagonist doesn’t.) This form of irony is a great way of keeping the audience on the edge of their seats and building tension. 

Tragic irony 

In tragic irony, a subset of dramatic irony, the words, and actions of the characters contradict reality, often in a tragic or devastating way, which the readers or spectators realize.

Tragic irony came to define many ancient Greek tragedies. For instance, in Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex,” the audience can see what Oedipus is blind to: he’s actually killing his own father. 

William Shakespeare was also a fan of using tragic irony to keep the audience gripped to a compelling, often sorrowful plotline. In Romeo and Juliet , when Romeo is alerted of Juliet’s death, he assumes the tragic news to be true. 

But the audience knows that Juliet has, in fact, just faked her death with the help of a potion. Romeo, on the other hand, thinks Juliet is dead and, as a result, commits suicide.

Socratic irony  

Socratic irony gets its name from the moral philosopher Socrates, who would often fake ignorance to reveal someone’s misconstrued assumptions. It’s one of the more manipulative types of irony and is one way of getting information out of someone that can then be used against them later. 

You might recognize socratic irony in courtroom scenes from legal dramas like Suits . Lawyers often use rhetorical tricks, like socratic irony , to get someone to confess or admit something. 

Socratic irony is also perfect for comedies, too. In a classic scene from the American comedy T he Office , Michael knows that Dwight lied about going to the dentist. When Dwight returns, Michael goes for some rather ineffective rhetorical questioning to try and catch Dwight out. 

Situational irony 

Situational irony or the “irony of events” is when the reality contradicts an expected outcome. 

In movies and literature, situational irony ensures things are unpredictable and interesting. After all, it’d be dull if the plot turned out exactly how we expected every time. It’s not how life or fictional storytelling works. 

With situational irony, we learn at the same time as the characters that our expectations are different from reality.

For example in American Psycho , Patrick Bateman confesses to committing a string of murders but is laughed off. We anticipate that he’ll be punished for his crimes, but he isn’t, making it a perfect example of situational irony.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is another story full of examples of situational irony. Dorothy longs to go home and fulfills the wizard’s demanding list of tasks only to find out she had the ability to return home all along. The lion who appears to be a coward is actually courageous and the scarecrow who wants to be intelligent is actually a genius.

Situational irony is linked to the concept of cosmic irony –– when the universe or gods seemingly conspire for an event for its own amusement. 

Cosmic irony is a subcategory of situational irony but is defined by the inclusion of a supernatural element. There’s still a situation where the reality and expectation are different but there is another element involved –– a higher power if you will. This could be god, the universe, or fate. 

Remember that the “irony of events” isn’t the same as a coincidence or plain bad luck. 

What’s the difference between irony and sarcasm?

Ah, “sarcasm the lowest form of wit” as the writer, Oscar Wilde, once said. While Wilde wasn’t a fan, a sarcastic jibe here and there isn’t always bad news.

People often mix up irony and sarcasm. As we touched on briefly above, sarcasm is actually a type of irony. 

So the difference between sarcasm and irony is pretty small and nuanced. Once you’re clear on how sarcasm fits into irony, you won’t find yourself identifying sarcasm as irony again.

In its simplest form, irony refers to situations where the outcome is the opposite of what you or the reader expect. 

If a prediction is black, then the outcome would be white. Not off-white or gray, it would have to be totally the opposite of black. 

Sarcasm, on the other hand, is a form of expression that’s generally pointed at a person with the objective of criticizing or denigrating someone. Sarcasm is usually insincere speech and can have a condescending tone to it, with the purpose of insulting or embarrassing someone. 

Let’s take a look at both verbal irony and sarcasm side by side:

Verbal irony — Wife saying, “What a beautiful stormy day for a swim.”

Sarcasm —  Husband saying to the same wife, “The middle of the hurricane season was a great time for a vacation out here.” 

See how with verbal irony, it’s ironic because the weather isn’t beautiful for swimming. Instead, the opposite is true –– it’s unpleasant and sometimes dangerous to swim during a storm. 

But sarcasm is making a sneering comment about choosing to go on vacation in the middle of hurricane season. When you see the two statements together, it’s easier to see how they differ from one another. 

Let’s look at some more sarcasm examples:

•  After someone tells a boring or never-ending story: “That’s so fascinating.”

•  After failing your driving test: “Well, that went well.” 

•  Self-deprecating: “ Dinner is burned, I’m such a great chef. ”

To easily differentiate between sarcasm and irony, remember that irony applies to situations while sarcasm is a form of expression. In a way, sarcasm is like irony dressed up with a sassy attitude.

Key takeaways: irony

So, that’s a wrap. Irony isn’t all that difficult to wrap your head around when you know what to look for. Ultimately, irony is just the use of words to express something that’s the opposite of the literal meaning.

When used correctly, irony helps you inject humor and wit into your writing while keeping things interesting and unexpected for the reader. 

Looking to make your writing more engaging? Try a free trial with Writer today. 

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Figure of Speech

Figure of Speech Definition

What is a figure of speech? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

A figure of speech is a literary device in which language is used in an unusual—or "figured"—way in order to produce a stylistic effect. Figures of speech can be broken into two main groups: figures of speech that play with the ordinary meaning of words (such as metaphor , simile , and hyperbole ), and figures of speech that play with the ordinary arrangement or pattern in which words are written (such as alliteration , ellipsis , and antithesis ).

Some additional key details about figures of speech:

• The ancient Greeks and Romans exhaustively listed, defined, and categorized figures of speech in order to better understand how to effectively use language. The names of most figures of speech derive from the original Greek or Latin.
• Figures of speech that play with the literal meaning of words are called tropes , while figures of speech that play with the order or pattern of words are called schemes .
• Figures of speech can take many forms. A figure of speech can involve a single word, a phrase, an omission of a word or phrase, a repetition of words or sounds, or specific sentence structures.

Figure of Speech Pronunciation

Here's how to pronounce figure of speech: fig -yer of speech

Figures of Speech vs. Figurative Language

There's a lot of confusion about the difference between the terms "figures of speech" and " figurative language ." Most of the confusion stems from the fact that different people often use "figurative language" to mean slightly different things. The two most common (and most acceptable) definitions of figurative language are:

• Figurative language refers to any language that contains figures of speech. According to this definition, figurative language and figures of speech are not quite the same thing, but it's pretty darn close. The only difference is that figures of speech refer to each specific type of a figure of speech, while figurative language refers more generally to any language that contains any kind of figures of speech.
• Figurative language refers to words or expressions that have non-literal meanings : This definition associates figurative language only with the category of figures of speech called tropes (which are figures of speech that play with the literal meaning of words). So according to this definition, figurative language would be any language that contains tropes, but not language that contains the figures of speech called schemes.

You might encounter people using figurative speech to mean either of the above, and it's not really possible to say which is correct. But if you know about these two different ways of relating figurative language and figures of speech, you'll be in pretty good shape.

Figures of Speech, Tropes, and Schemes

The oldest and still most common way to organize figures of speech is to split them into two main groups: tropes and schemes.

• Tropes are figures of speech that involve a deviation from the expected and literal meaning of words.
• Schemes are figures of speech that involve a deviation from the typical mechanics of a sentence, such as the order, pattern, or arrangement of words.

The scheme/trope classification system is by no means the only way to organize figures of speech (if you're interested, you can find all sorts of different categorization methods for figures of speech here ). But it is the most common method, and is both simple and structured enough to help you understand figures of speech.

Generally, a trope uses comparison, association, or wordplay to play with the literal meaning of words or to layer another meaning on top of a word's literal meaning. Some of the most commonly used tropes are explained briefly below, though you can get even more detail on each from its specific LitCharts entry.

• Metaphor : A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unrelated things by stating that one thing is another thing, even though this isn't literally true. For example, if someone says "it's raining cats and dogs," this obviously doesn't literally mean what it says—it's a metaphor that makes a comparison between the weight of "cats and dogs" and heavy rain. Metaphors are tropes because their effect relies not on the mechanics of the sentence, but rather on the association created by the use of the phrase "cats and dogs" in a non-literal manner.
• Simile : A simile, like a metaphor, makes a comparison between two unrelated things. However, instead of stating that one thing is another thing (as in metaphor), a simile states that one thing is like another thing. To stick with cats and dogs, an example of a simile would be to say "they fought like cats and dogs."
• Oxymoron : An oxymoron pairs contradictory words in order to express new or complex meanings. In the phrase "parting is such sweet sorrow" from Romeo and Juliet , "sweet sorrow" is an oxymoron that captures the complex and simultaneous feelings of pain and pleasure associated with passionate love. Oxymorons are tropes because their effect comes from a combination of the two words that goes beyond the literal meanings of those words.
• Hyperbole : A hyperbole is an intentional exaggeration of the truth, used to emphasize the importance of something or to create a comic effect. An example of a hyperbole is to say that a backpack "weighs a ton." No backpack literally weighs a ton, but to say "my backpack weighs ten pounds" doesn't effectively communicate how burdensome a heavy backpack feels. Once again, this is a trope because its effect comes from understanding that the words mean something different from what they literally say.

Other Common Tropes

• Antanaclasis
• Onomatopoeia
• Personification
• Periphrasis
• Rhetorical Question

Schemes are mechanical—they're figures of speech that tinker with words, sounds, and structures (as opposed to meanings) in order to achieve an effect. Schemes can themselves be broken down in helpful ways that define the sort of tinkering they employ.

• Repetition: Repeating words, phrases, or even sounds in a particular way.
• Omission: Leaving out certain words or punctuation that would normally be expected.
• Changes of word order: Shifting around words or phrases in atypical ways.
• Balance: Creating sentences or phrases with equal parts, often through the use of identical grammatical structures.

Some of the most commonly used schemes are explained briefly below, though you can get even more detail on each from its specific LitCharts entry.

• Alliteration : In alliteration, the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the “b” sound in: “ B ob b rought the b ox of b ricks to the b asement.” Alliteration uses repetition to create a musical effect that helps phrases to stand out from the language around them.
• Assonance : A scheme in which vowel sounds repeat in nearby words, such as the "ee" sound in the proverb: "the squ ea ky wh ee l gets the gr ea se." Like alliteration, assonance uses repeated sounds to create a musical effect in which words echo one another—it's a scheme because this effect is achieved through repetition of words with certain sounds, not by playing with the meaning of words.
• Ellipsis : The deliberate omission of one or more words from a sentence because their meaning is already implied. In the example, "Should I call you, or you me?" the second clause uses ellipsis. While its implication is "or should you call me," the context of the sentence allows for the omission of "should" and "call." Ellipsis is a scheme because it involves an uncommon usage of language.
• Parallelism : The repetition of sentence structure for emphasis and balance. This can occur in a single sentence, such as "a penny saved is a penny earned," and it can also occur over the course of a speech, poem, or other text. Parallelism is a scheme because it creates emphasis through the mechanics of sentence structure, rather than by playing with the actual meanings of words.

Other Common Schemes

• Anadiplosis
• Antimetabole
• Brachylogia
• Epanalepsis
• Parenthesis
• Polysyndeton

Figure of Speech Examples

Figures of speech can make language more inventive, more beautiful, more rhythmic, more memorable, and more meaningful. It shouldn't be a surprise, then, that figures of speech are plentiful in all sorts of written language. The examples below show a variety of different types of figures of speech. You can see many more examples of each type at their own specific LitChart entries.

Figures of Speech Examples in Literature

Literature is riddled with figures of speech because figures of speech make language colorful and complex.

Metaphor in Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca

On and on, now east now west, wound the poor thread that once had been our drive. Sometimes I thought it lost, but it appeared again, beneath a fallen tree perhaps, or struggling on the other side of a muddied ditch created by the winter rains.

In this quote from Rebecca , Daphne du Maurier refers to a washed-out road as "the poor thread." This is a metaphor —and a trope—because the writer indirectly compares the thread to the road and expects that readers will understand that "thread" is not used literally.

Parallelism in Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way.

In the famous opening line of A Tale of Two Cities , Dickens uses parallelism —a scheme in which parts of a sentence repeat—in order to emphasize the contradictions of the time in which the book is set. Dickens has manipulated his sentence structure so that the parallel clauses emphasize the oppositional nature of his words ("it was the best of times, it was the worst of times"). The figure of speech doesn't play with the meaning of words, it emphasizes them through structure and repetition, which is why it is a scheme.

Alliteration in Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Birthmark"

In this manner, s electing it as the s ymbol of his wife's liability to s in, s orrow, d ecay, and d eath, Aylmer's s ombre imagination was not long in rendering the birthmark a frightful object, causing him more trouble and horror than ever Georgiana's beauty, whether of s oul or s ense, had given him delight.

This passage from " The Birthmark " uses alliteration to tie together all of the things that Georgiana's birthmark is supposed to symbolize. By using words that alliterate—"sin and sorrow" and "decay and death," for example—Hawthorne is making the reader feel that these ideas are connected, rather than simply stating that they are connected. Alliteration is a figure of speech—a scheme—because it uses the mechanics of language to emphasize meaning.

Verbal Irony in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar

For Brutus is an honorable man; So are they all, all honorable men,

This quote from Julius Caesar comes from Marc Antony's speech at Caesar's funeral. Antony needs to hold Brutus and his conspirators accountable for Caesar's death without contradicting the crowd's positive impression of Brutus, so Antony uses verbal irony to simultaneously please and trouble the crowd. On the surface, Antony says what the audience wants to hear (that Brutus is honorable), but it becomes clear over the course of his speech that he means the opposite of what he says (and over time he convinces the audience to believe this opposite meaning as well). This is a figure of speech (a trope) because it's based on a play on the meaning of Antony's words.

Figures of Speech Examples in Music

Figures of speech are also common in music. Schemes fit naturally with songs because both schemes and songs manipulate sound and rhythm to enhance the meanings of words. Music also uses many tropes, because using words that have meanings beyond their literal ones makes language more interesting, and it allows songwriters to create music that uses just a few words to imply a complex meaning.

Assonance and Metaphor in Rihanna's "Diamonds"

So sh ine br igh t ton igh t, you and I We're beautiful l i ke d i amonds in the sk y Eye to eye , so al i ve We're beautiful l i ke d i amonds in the sk y

Rihanna uses assonance when she repeats the " eye " sound throughout the chorus of "Diamonds." This make the words echo one another, which emphasizes the similarity between the singer, the person she's talking about, and the "diamonds in the sky" to which she's comparing them both. Assonance is a scheme because it's using the sound of words—not their meaning—to draw a parallel between different things.

Rihanna also uses the phrase "Diamonds in the sky" as a metaphor for stars. This is a trope—a phrase that means something other than what it literally says—as Rihanna obviously doesn't think that there are actually diamonds in the sky. This verse is a good example of how figures of speech can often work together and overlap. In this case, the metaphor that allows her to use "diamonds" instead of "stars" also fits into her use of assonance (because "stars" lacks the "eye" sound).

Personification in Green Day's "Good Riddance"

Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go

While the first line of this song uses "a fork stuck in the road" as a metaphor for a choice, the more arresting figure of speech at work here is the personification of time in the second line. By giving "time" human characteristics—the ability to grab a person and tell them where to go—Green Day is helping listeners to make sense of the power that time has over people. This is a trope because the line doesn't mean what it literally says; instead, it's asking listeners to make a comparison between the characteristics of time and the characteristics of a person.

Anastrophe in Public Enemy's "Fight the Power"

Straight up racist that sucker was Simple and plain

In the line "Straight up racist that sucker was," Public Enemy uses anastrophe (which is the inversion of typical word order) to preserve the rhythm of the verse. Instead of saying "That sucker was straight up racist," Public Enemy chooses an odd phrasing that has one stressed syllable followed by two unstressed syllables— " ra cist that su cker was/ Sim ple and plain ." This way, the beat falls more regularly across those two lines, which allows the rapper to make his point (that Elvis was racist) without the flow sounding awkward. Since anastrophe manipulates the order of words in order to achieve a rhythmic effect, it's a scheme.

Why Do Writers Use Figures of Speech?

Figures of speech is a category that encompasses a broad variety of literary terms, so it's difficult to give one answer to this question. Writers use different figures of speech to achieve different effects.

Schemes (figures of speech that manipulate sound, syntax, and word order) can make language more beautiful, persuasive, or memorable. Writers can use schemes to draw attention to an important passage, to create a sound that mirrors (or contrasts with) the meaning of words, or to give language a rhythm that draws the reader in. As schemes tend to work through sound and rhythm, they generally produce a visceral effect, or an effect felt in the body—broadly speaking, schemes are more sensory than intellectual.

In contrast, writers use tropes to grab the reader intellectually by adding complexity or ambiguity to an otherwise simple word or phrase. Tropes can ask the reader to make a comparison between two unlike things, they can impose human qualities on nonhumans, and they can mean the opposite of what they say. Tropes engage the intellect because the reader has to be alert to the fact that tropes do not use language at face value—a trope never means what it literally says.

All figures of speech help a writer to communicate ideas that are difficult to say in words or that are more effectively communicated non-verbally. This could be by repeating harsh consonants to create a scary atmosphere, or by using a metaphor to impose the qualities of something concrete (say, a rose) onto something more difficult to define (say, love). In general, figures of speech attempt to bring out a reader's emotion and to capture their attention by making language more colorful, surprising, and complex.

Other Helpful Figure of Speech Resources

• Silva Rhetoricae on Figures of Speech : An excellent reference from BYU that explains the various ways that figures of speech have been categorized over history, including into schemes and tropes.
• Silva Rhetoricae on schemes and tropes :
• The Oxford Reference Page for Figure of Speech : A helpful definition of figures of speech in the context of the ancient study of rhetoric (did you know that the Roman rhetorician Quintillian defined "figure of speech" in 95 AD?)
• What Are Tropes in Language? Skip to the "Distinction Between Figures and Tropes" section and read to the end—full of informative and thought-provoking discussion about tropes.
• A YouTube video about tropes and schemes with pop culture examples.

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• Alliteration
• Climax (Figure of Speech)
• Figurative Language
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• Flat Character
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• Literary Terms
• Figures of Speech
• Definition & Examples
• When & How to Use Figures of Speech

I. What are Figures of Speech?

A figure of speech is a word or phrase using figurative language—language that has other meaning than its normal definition. In other words, figures of speeches rely on implied or suggested meaning, rather than a dictionary definition.  We express and develop them through hundreds of different rhetorical techniques, from specific types like metaphors and similes , to more general forms like sarcasm and slang.

Figures of speech make up a huge portion of the English language, making it more creative, more expressive, and just more interesting! Many have been around for hundreds of years—some even thousands—and more are added to our language essentially every day. This article will focus on a few key forms of figures of speech, but remember, the types are nearly endless!

III. Types of Figure of Speech

There are countless figures of speech in every language, and they fall into hundreds of categories. Here, though, is a short list of some of the most common types of figure of speech:

A. Metaphor

Many common figures of speech are metaphors. That is, they use words in a manner other than their literal meaning. However, metaphors use figurative language to make comparisons between unrelated things or ideas. The “peak of her career,” for example, is a metaphor, since a career is not a literal mountain with a peak , but the metaphor represents the idea of arriving at the highest point of one’s career.

An idiom is a common phrase with a figurative meaning. Idioms are different from other figures of speech in that their figurative meanings are mostly known within a particular language, culture, or group of people. In fact, the English language alone has about 25,000 idioms. Some examples include “it’s raining cats and dogs” when it is raining hard, or “break a leg” when wishing someone good luck.

This sentence uses an idiom to make it more interesting:

There’s a supermarket and a pharmacy in the mall, so if we go there, we can kill two birds with one stone.

The idiom is a common way of saying that two tasks can be completed in the same amount of time or same place.

A proverb is a short, commonplace saying that is universally understood in today’s language and used to express general truths. “Don’t cry over spilt milk” is a popular example. Most proverbs employ metaphors (e.g. the proverb about milk isn’t  literally  about milk).

This example uses a proverb to emphasize the situation:

I know you think you’re going to sell all of those cookies, but don’t count your chickens before they hatch!

Here, “don’t count your chickens before they hatch” means that you shouldn’t act like something has happened before it actually does.

A simile is a very common figure of speech that uses the words “like” and “as” to compare two things that are not related by definition. For example, “he is as tall as a mountain,” doesn’t mean he was actually 1,000 feet tall, it just means he was really tall.

This example uses a simile for comparison:

The internet is like a window to the world —you can learn about everything online!

The common phrase “window to the world” refers to a hypothetical window that lets you see the whole world from it. So, saying the internet is like a window to the world implies that it lets you see anything and everything.

E. Oxymoron

An oxymoron is when you use two words together that have contradictory meanings. Some common examples include s mall crowd, definitely possible, old news, little giant , and so on.

A metonym is a word or phrase that is used to represent something related to bigger meaning. For example, fleets are sometimes described as being “thirty sails strong,” meaning thirty (curiously, this metonym survives in some places, even when the ships in question are not sail-powered!) Similarly, the crew on board those ships may be described as “hands” rather than people.

Irony is when a word or phrase’s literal meaning is the opposite of its figurative meaning. Many times (but not always), irony is expressed with sarcasm (see Related Terms). For example, maybe you eat a really bad cookie, and then say “Wow, that was the best cookie I ever had”—of course, what you really mean is that it’s the worst cookie you ever had, but being ironic actually emphasizes just how bad it was!

IV. The Importance of Figures of Speech

In general, the purpose of a figure of speech is to lend texture and color to your writing. (This is itself a figure of speech, since figures of speech don’t actually change the colors or textures on the page!) For instance, metaphors allow you to add key details that make the writing more lively and relatable. Slang and verbal irony, on the other hand, make the writing seem much more informal and youthful (although they can have the opposite effect when misused!) Finally, other figures of speech, like idioms and proverbs, allows a writer to draw on a rich cultural tradition and express complex ideas in a short space.

V. Examples of Figures of Speech in Literature

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances, and one man in his time plays many parts.” (William Shakespeare, As You Like It)

This is one of the most famous metaphors ever crafted in the English language. Shakespeare uses his extended metaphor to persuade the audience of the similarities between the stage and real life. But rather than making his play seem more like life, he suggests that life is more like a play. His metaphor calls attention to the performative, creative, and fictional aspects of human life.

“Our words are b ut crumbs that fall down from the feast o f the mind.” (Khalil Gibran, Sand & Foam )

Gibran’s timeless metaphor succeeds for a number of reasons. For one thing, it is not a cliché – had Gibran said “words are just the tip of the iceberg ,” he would have been making roughly the same point, but in a much more clichéd way. But the feast of the mind is a highly original metaphor. In addition, it’s a successful double metaphor. The crumbs and the feast are two parts of the same image, but they work together rather than being “mixed” (see How to Use Figures of Speech ).

“If you chase two rabbits, you will lose them both.” (Russian Proverb)

Like many proverbs, this one draws on a simple metaphor of chasing rabbits. The rabbits can stand in for all sorts of objectives, from jobs to relationships, but the coded message is quite clear – focus your energy on a single objective, or you will likely fail. This literal statement, though, is quite dry and not terribly memorable, which shows the power of figures of speech.

VI. Examples of Figures of Speech in Pop Culture

The chorus to Sean Kingston’s Fire Burning contains a couple of figures of speech. First of all, there’s the word “shorty” used as a slang term (see Related Terms ) for a young woman. She may or may not be literally short, but the figure of speech applies either way (though it could easily be taken as belittling and derogatory). Second, Kingston sings the metaphor: “she’s fire, burning on the dance floor.” Hopefully this is a figure of speech and not a literal statement; otherwise, Kingston and everyone else in the club are in mortal danger!

“Oh, thanks! This is much better!” (Townspeople, South Park )

This is an example of irony. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, South Park satirized the government’s response to the disaster by writing about a similar disaster in South Park. In a bumbling effort to rescue people from the floods, the authorities accidentally spill oil on the flood waters and set it on fire, making the situation far more dangerous. In response, they ironically “thank” the people responsible—their meaning is obviously the opposite of their words!

Years of talks between Washington and Havana resulted in Obama’s historic visit to Cuba on March 21st. (Patreon 2016)

This is a common form of metonym in foreign policy and news media. The capital city of a country is used as a metonym for the national government. The talks, of course, are not literally between these two cities, but between the leaders and government officials of the two countries (US and Cuba).

VII. Related Terms

Literal and figurative language.

Language is generally divided into two categories: literal, and figurative. Literal language relies on the real definition of words and phrases, or their literal meanings. Figurative language, on the other hand, relies on implied meanings, which can be understood differently depending on the location or who is using it. For example, “the sky is blue” relies on the literal definition of the word “blue,” while “I am feeling blue” relies on the figurative definition. All figures of speech rely on the use of figurative language for their meaning.

Sarcasm is mocking or bitter language that we use to express different meaning than what we say; often the exact opposite. When your intended meaning is the opposite of the literal meaning, that’s irony (another type of figure of speech), which includes common phrases like “Oh, great…” when you really mean something is bad.

Slang is language that uses atypical words and phrases to express specific meanings. It varies greatly by region, demographic, and language—for example, you would find different slang in the U.S. and in the U.K. even though they are both English speaking countries. Likewise, teenagers and the elderly will use different slang terms, as would Spanish and English. Many slang terms are figures of speech. For example, “bro” could be used to describe a friend rather than an actual brother; this would be using the word as a figure of speech.

List of Terms

• Alliteration
• Amplification
• Anachronism
• Anthropomorphism
• Antonomasia
• APA Citation
• Aposiopesis
• Autobiography
• Bildungsroman
• Characterization
• Circumlocution
• Cliffhanger
• Comic Relief
• Connotation
• Deus ex machina
• Deuteragonist
• Doppelganger
• Double Entendre
• Dramatic irony
• Equivocation
• Extended Metaphor
• Flash-forward
• Foreshadowing
• Intertextuality
• Juxtaposition
• Literary Device
• Malapropism
• Onomatopoeia
• Parallelism
• Pathetic Fallacy
• Personification
• Point of View
• Polysyndeton
• Protagonist
• Red Herring
• Rhetorical Device
• Rhetorical Question
• Science Fiction
• Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
• Synesthesia
• Turning Point
• Understatement
• Urban Legend
• Verisimilitude
• Essay Guide
• Cite This Website

Irony in Advertising 📺

• Burger King’s “Have it Your Way” campaign — This campaign was ironic because Burger King was encouraging customers to customize their orders, while at the same time, the company was not allowing its employees to customize their own work schedules.
• KFC’s “Finger Lickin’ Good” campaign — This campaign was ironic because KFC was encouraging customers to enjoy their food, while at the same time, the company was not providing its employees with adequate safety measures to protect them from the dangers of working with hot oil.
• Apple’s “Think Different” campaign — This campaign was ironic because Apple was encouraging customers to think differently, while at the same time, the company was not allowing its employees to think differently.

Related literary devices 👥

• Satire — Both a genre and a literary device, satire is often confused with irony because this type of writing is heavily dependent on irony, and oftentimes, sarcasm. Examples of satire include: A Modest Proposal by Jonathon Swift and the more modern newspaper article, “Want to end school shootings? Let’s just arm the kids.” by controversial journalist Allen Kerr.

Understanding Irony: Definition, Types, and Examples

What is irony, types of irony, examples of verbal irony, examples of situational irony, examples of dramatic irony, how to identify irony.

Who hasn't heard the phrase, "Well, isn't that ironic?" thrown around in casual conversation? Irony is a common term in our everyday language, yet its true meaning can often be elusive or misinterpreted. This is why the definition of irony is worth exploring. So, sit tight and prepare to gain a better understanding of this often misunderstood, but widely used literary tool.

Irony is a fascinating concept that adds depth to our language and communication. At its core, irony involves a twist or a surprise that is different from what you would usually expect. It's like when you're running late and hit every green light, but when you're early, you seem to catch every red one. That's irony for you—always playing with our expectations! Now, let's get into the specifics.

Definition of Irony

Irony is a figure of speech where words are used in a way that their intended meaning is different from their actual meaning. It may also be a situation that ends up in quite a different way than what is generally anticipated. In simple words, it is a difference between the appearance and the reality.

The Purpose of Irony

Irony serves various purposes. It can add humor to a situation, make a reader or viewer think more deeply, or shock them with an unexpected turn of events. It can also:

• Highlight a character's innocence or ignorance
• Enhance a tragic or dramatic effect
• Create a lighter tone in a serious situation

Irony in Everyday Life

You might not realize it, but you encounter irony in your everyday life. For instance, imagine you decide to skip work to go to a concert, only to find out the band also decided not to show up. That's irony! It's these little twists and turns that life throws at us that make the concept of irony so relatable.

So, now you've got a clear understanding of the definition of irony. But, did you know there are different types of irony too? Let's dive into them in the next section.

Irony is not a one-size-fits-all kind of term. Just like your favorite pair of shoes, it comes in different styles and varieties, each with its own unique characteristics. So, let's have a look at the three main types of irony: verbal, situational, and dramatic irony.

Verbal Irony

Verbal irony is when someone says one thing but means another. It's kind of like sarcasm, but not always. For instance, if it's raining cats and dogs outside and you say, "What lovely weather we're having," you're using verbal irony. Your words are opposite to the actual situation.

Situational Irony

Situational irony, on the other hand, is when the opposite of what you expect to happen, happens. It's like if a fire station were to catch fire. You'd expect a fire station of all places to be safe from fire, but the reality is quite ironic, don't you think?

Dramatic Irony

The last type, dramatic irony, is a popular device in literature and film. This is when the audience knows something that the characters in the story do not. Remember in "Romeo and Juliet" when Juliet pretends to be dead and Romeo, thinking she's actually dead, kills himself? That's a classic example of dramatic irony. We, the audience, know Juliet isn't really dead, but poor Romeo doesn't.

So, there you have it—the three main types of irony. Each type adds a unique layer of complexity to our language and storytelling. But, to get a real sense of how irony works, let's look at some examples in the next sections.

Now that you have a clear definition of irony and its types, let's dive into some examples. We'll start with verbal irony, the type of irony that is all about saying one thing and meaning another. Let's go!

"Nice Weather, Isn't It?"

Imagine you're walking home, soaking wet from a sudden downpour. A friend passes by, safe and dry under an umbrella, and quips, "Nice weather, isn't it?" That's a classic example of verbal irony. By saying the exact opposite of what's true, your friend creates a humorous and ironic situation.

"I Can't Wait to Do My Homework"

Picture this: It's Friday afternoon, and the last bell of the school day rings. Your teacher hands you a huge pile of homework for the weekend. As you stuff the papers into your backpack, you say, "I can't wait to do my homework!" Now, unless you're a true lover of homework, you're likely being ironic here. You're expressing the opposite of your true feelings, making this a perfect example of verbal irony.

"I Love Being Stuck in Traffic"

Stuck in traffic after a long day at work, you might remark to a fellow commuter, "I love being stuck in traffic." Unless you enjoy honking horns and bumper-to-bumper cars, it's likely you don't actually love it. Again, this is verbal irony because your words express the opposite of what you truly mean.

These examples show how verbal irony can add humor and complexity to our everyday conversations. But what about situational irony? Let's take a look at that next.

Let's move on to situational irony. This is when the outcome is the opposite of what you expected. As the definition of irony goes, it's all about that unexpected twist! Here are a few examples to paint a clearer picture.

The Fire Station Burns Down

Imagine a scenario where a fire station—yes, the place that's supposed to prevent and put out fires—catches fire and burns to the ground. That's situational irony right there. You'd expect a fire station to be the last place to burn down, but the unexpected has happened, creating a deeply ironic situation.

The Lifeguard Can't Swim

Now, picture this: a lifeguard who can't swim. Sounds crazy, right? But that's exactly what makes it an example of situational irony. We expect lifeguards to be excellent swimmers, ready to save lives at a moment's notice. If they can't swim, that's the complete opposite of what we expect—hence, it's ironic.

The Teacher Fails the Test

Lastly, consider a teacher who fails a test in their own subject. Teachers are supposed to know their subjects inside out, so them failing a test would be a surprising and ironic situation. It flips our expectations upside down, making it a perfect example of situational irony.

These examples should help you see how situational irony can create unexpected and interesting scenarios. Now, let's move on to dramatic irony, another fascinating facet of this literary device.

Now that we've covered situational irony, let's dive into dramatic irony. This form of irony occurs when the audience knows something that the characters in a story don't, creating tension and suspense. Here are a few examples:

Romeo and Juliet

One of the classic examples of dramatic irony comes from Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet". In the play, Juliet takes a potion to appear dead so she can run away with Romeo. However, Romeo doesn't know about the plan and thinks Juliet is truly dead. The audience, on the other hand, knows Juliet isn't dead, creating a painful sense of dramatic irony as we watch Romeo's reaction.

The Truman Show

In the film "The Truman Show", Truman lives in a reality TV show but doesn't know it. The audience, however, is aware of the truth, which makes Truman's obliviousness a clear example of dramatic irony. His everyday actions, innocent of the reality, create a sense of tension and suspense that defines the film.

Little Red Riding Hood

In the traditional fairy tale "Little Red Riding Hood", the reader knows that the wolf has dressed up as Little Red Riding Hood's grandmother. However, Little Red Riding Hood herself doesn't know this. The tension that builds as we wait for her to find out is a perfect example of dramatic irony.

So, there you have it—dramatic irony in a nutshell! It adds an element of suspense and makes stories more engaging. Now, let's learn how to identify irony in its many forms.

Irony can often be tricky to spot, especially when it's used subtly. But don't worry, with a bit of practice and the right tools, you'll become an irony-detecting wizard in no time. Let's get started:

Context is Key

When trying to identify irony, it's important to take the context into account. Irony often involves a discrepancy between what's expected and what actually happens. So, if the outcome is different from what you anticipated, you might just have stumbled upon an irony.

Look for Contradictions

Irony often involves contradictions. In verbal irony, for example, a person might say one thing but mean just the opposite. So, if the words don't match the actions or the situation, you're likely dealing with irony.

Consider the Audience's Knowledge

In dramatic irony, the audience or reader has information that the characters do not. If you find yourself knowing more than the characters in a story and that knowledge creates a tension or surprise, you've likely found dramatic irony.

And that wraps up our guide on how to identify irony! It might seem a bit daunting at first, but remember, practice makes perfect. So, next time you're reading a book or watching a movie, keep an eye out for these telltale signs of irony. You'll be amazed at how it can add depth and complexity to the story.

While understanding irony is essential for any creative, it's also crucial to explore other aspects of your craft. If you're a photographer looking to dive deeper into how your identity can inform your practice, check out ' How Identity Can Inform Your Photography Practice ' by Ryan Prince. This workshop will help you to develop a more authentic and personal approach to your photography work.

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Figure of Speech

Definition of figure of speech.

A figure of speech is a word or phrase that is used in a non-literal way to create an effect. This effect may be rhetorical as in the deliberate arrangement of words to achieve something poetic, or imagery as in the use of language to suggest a visual picture or make an idea more vivid. Overall, figures of speech function as literary devices because of their expressive use of language. Words are used in other ways than their literal meanings or typical manner of application.

For example, Margaret Atwood utilizes figures of speech in her poem “ you fit into me ” as a means of achieving poetic meaning and creating a vivid picture for the reader.

you fit into me like a hook into an eye a fish hook an open eye

The simile in the first two lines sets forth a comparison between the way “you” fits into the poet like a hook and eye closure for perhaps a garment. This is an example of rhetorical effect in that the wording carefully achieves the idea of two things meant to connect to each other. In the second two lines, the wording is clarified by adding “fish” to “hook” and “open” to “eye,” which calls forth an unpleasant and even violent image. The poet’s descriptions of hooks and eyes are not meant literally in the poem. Yet the use of figurative language allows the poet to express two very different meanings and images that enhance the interpretation of the poem through contrast .

Types of Figures of Speech

The term  figure of speech covers a wide range of literary devices, techniques, and other forms of figurative language, a few of which include:

Personification

Understatement.

• Alliteration
• Onomatopoeia
• Circumlocution

Common Examples of Figures of Speech Used in Conversation

Many people use figures of speech in conversation as a way of clarifying or emphasizing what they mean. Here are some common examples of conversational figures of speech:

Hyperbole is a figure of speech that utilizes extreme exaggeration to emphasize a certain quality or feature.

• I have a million things to do.
• This suitcase weighs a ton.
• This room is an ice-box.
• I’ll die if he doesn’t ask me on a date.
• I’m too poor to pay attention.

Understatement is a figure of speech that invokes less emotion than would be expected in reaction to something. This downplaying of reaction is a surprise for the reader and generally has the effect of showing irony .

• I heard she has cancer, but it’s not a big deal.
• Joe got his dream job, so that’s not too bad.
• Sue won the lottery, so she’s a bit excited.
• That condemned house just needs a coat of paint.
• The hurricane brought a couple of rain showers with it.

A paradox is a figure of speech that appears to be self-contradictory but actually reveals something truthful.

• You have to spend money to save it.
• What I’ve learned is that I know nothing.
• You have to be cruel to be kind.
• Things get worse before they get better.
• The only rule is to ignore all rules.

A pun is a figure of speech that contains a “ play ” on words, such as using words that mean one thing to mean something else or words that sound alike in as a means of changing meaning.

• A sleeping bull is called a bull-dozer.
• Baseball players eat on home plates.
• Polar bears vote at the North Poll.
• Fish are smart because they travel in schools.
• One bear told another that life without them would be grizzly.

An oxymoron is a figure of speech that connects two opposing ideas, usually in two-word phrases, to create a contradictory effect.

• open secret
• Alone together
• controlled chaos
• pretty ugly

Common Examples of Figure of Speech in Writing

Writers also use figures of speech in their work as a means of description or developing meaning. Here are some common examples of figures of speech used in writing:

Simile is a figure of speech in which two dissimilar things are compared to each other using the terms “like” or “as.”

• She’s as pretty as a picture.
• I’m pleased as punch.
• He’s strong like an ox.
• You are sly like a fox.
• I’m happy as a clam.

A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things without the use of the terms “like” or “as.”

• He is a fish out of water.
• She is a star in the sky.
• My grandchildren are the flowers of my garden.
• That story is music to my ears.
• Your words are a broken record.

Euphemism is a figure of speech that refers to figurative language designed to replace words or phrases that would otherwise be considered harsh, impolite, or unpleasant.

• Last night , Joe’s grandfather passed away (died).
• She was starting to feel over the hill (old).
• Young adults are curious about the birds and bees (sex).
• I need to powder my nose (go to the bathroom).
• Our company has decided to let you go (fire you).

Personification is a figure of speech that attributes human characteristics to something that is not human.

• I heard the wind whistling.
• The water danced across my window.
• My dog is telling me to start dinner.
• The moon is smiling at me.
• Her alarm hummed in the background.

Writing Figure of Speech

As a literary device, figures of speech enhance the meaning of written and spoken words. In oral communication, figures of speech can clarify, enhance description, and create interesting use of language. In writing, when figures of speech are used effectively, these devices enhance the writer’s ability for description and expression so that readers have a better understanding of what is being conveyed.

It’s important that writers construct effective figures of speech so that the meaning is not lost for the reader. In other words, simple rearrangement or juxtaposition of words is not effective in the way that deliberate wording and phrasing are. For example, the hyperbole “I could eat a horse” is effective in showing great hunger by using figurative language. If a writer tried the hyperbole “I could eat a barn made of licorice,” the figurative language is ineffective and the meaning would be lost for most readers.

Here are some ways that writers benefit from incorporating figures of speech into their work:

Figure of Speech as Artistic Use of Language

Effective use of figures of speech is one of the greatest demonstrations of artistic use of language. Being able to create poetic meaning, comparisons, and expressions with these literary devices is how writers form art with words.

Figure of Speech as Entertainment for Reader

Effective figures of speech often elevate the entertainment value of a literary work for the reader. Many figures of speech invoke humor or provide a sense of irony in ways that literal expressions do not. This can create a greater sense of engagement for the reader when it comes to a literary work.

Figure of Speech as Memorable Experience for Reader

By using effective figures of speech to enhance description and meaning, writers make their works more memorable for readers as an experience. Writers can often share a difficult truth or convey a particular concept through figurative language so that the reader has a greater understanding of the material and one that lasts in memory.

Examples of Figure of Speech in Literature

Works of literature feature innumerable figures of speech that are used as literary devices. These figures of speech add meaning to literature and showcase the power and beauty of figurative language. Here are some examples of figures of speech in well-known literary works:

Example 1:  The Great Gatsby  (F. Scott Fitzgerald)

In his blue gardens men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars.

Fitzgerald makes use of simile here as a figure of speech to compare Gatsby’s party guests to moths. The imagery used by Fitzgerald is one of delicacy and beauty, and creates an ephemeral atmosphere . However, the likening of Gatsby’s guests to moths also reinforces the idea that they are only attracted to the sensation of the parties and that they will depart without having made any true impact or connection. This simile, as a figure of speech, underscores the themes of superficiality and transience in the novel .

Example 2:  One Hundred Years of Solitude (Gabriel Garcia Marquez)

Both described at the same time how it was always March there and always Monday, and then they understood that José Arcadio Buendía was not as crazy as the family said, but that he was the only one who had enough lucidity to sense the truth of the fact that time also stumbled and had accidents and could therefore splinter and leave an eternalized fragment in a room.

In this passage, Garcia Marquez utilizes personification as a figure of speech. Time is personified as an entity that “stumbled” and “had accidents.” This is an effective use of figurative language in that this personification of time indicates a level of human frailty that is rarely associated with something so measured. In addition, this is effective in the novel as a figure of speech because time has a great deal of influence on the plot and characters of the story. Personified in this way, the meaning of time in the novel is enhanced to the point that it is a character in and of itself.

Example 3:  Fahrenheit 451 (Ray Bradbury)

A book is a loaded gun in the house next door…Who knows who might be the target of the well-read man?

In this passage, Bradbury utilizes metaphor as a figure of speech to compare a book to a loaded gun. This is an effective literary device for this novel because, in the story, books are considered weapons of free thought and possession of them is illegal. Of course, Bradbury is only stating that a book is a loaded gun as a means of figurative, not literal meaning. This metaphor is particularly powerful because the comparison is so unlikely; books are generally not considered to be dangerous weapons. However, the comparison does have a level of logic in the context of the story in which the pursuit of knowledge is weaponized and criminalized.

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Figures of Speech: Definition and Types with Examples

A figure of speech is a word or phrase that is used in a non-literal sense to add emphasis or artistic effect. For example, if someone says “The room was so quiet you could hear a pin drop,” they are using a figure of speech to exaggerate the silence in the room for emphasis.

Figures of speech are literary devices that are used to create a more imaginative and engaging way of speaking or writing. These literary devices are often used to create vivid images or to express complex ideas in a more concise and impactful way.

Some common examples of figures of speech include metaphors, similes, personification, hyperbole, and irony. These devices are often used in poetry and literature to add depth and meaning to the text.

Most Common Figures of Speech in English Grammar

There is no fixed number of figures of speech in English grammar. New figures of speech can be created and old ones can fall out of use, so the number is constantly changing. Additionally, different sources may classify figures of speech differently, so the number can vary depending on the criteria used. Some common figures of speech in English include:

In simple terms, a simile is a figure of speech that compares two things using the words “like” or “as.” It’s a way of describing something by saying it’s similar to something else.

Imagine you’re trying to describe how fast a cheetah runs. You could say, “The cheetah runs like lightning.” By using the word “like,” you’re comparing the cheetah’s speed to the speed of lightning. This is a simile because you’re saying the cheetah is similar to lightning in terms of speed.

Similes help make our language more interesting and descriptive. They can create vivid images in our minds and help us understand something better by relating it to something more familiar. For example, if you say, “Her smile is as bright as the sun,” you’re comparing the brightness of her smile to the brightness of the sun.

So, similes are like little tools that writers and speakers use to make their descriptions more engaging and imaginative. They allow us to compare things in a fun and creative way, using “like” or “as” to highlight the similarities between them.

Here are a few more examples of similes:

• “He is as brave as a lion.” This simile compares someone’s bravery to the courage of a lion, emphasizing their fearlessness.
• “Her voice was like music to my ears.” In this simile, the person’s voice is being compared to the pleasant and melodious nature of music.
• “The water shimmered like diamonds under the sunlight.” This simile compares the sparkling quality of water to the brilliance and shine of diamonds.
• “She ran as fast as a cheetah chasing its prey.” Here, the speed of the person running is likened to the incredible speed of a cheetah in pursuit of its prey.
• “His anger erupted like a volcano, spewing fiery words.” This simile compares the sudden and intense anger to the eruption of a volcano, highlighting the force and intensity of the emotions.

A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two things by saying that one thing is another thing, even though they are not literally the same. It’s a way of describing something by using a word or phrase that is unrelated to the thing being described. Metaphors make our language more imaginative and creative.

Let’s look at an example to help explain it better. Imagine you want to describe a person who is very brave. You could say, “He is a lion.” Now, obviously, the person is not actually a lion. What you’re doing is using the word “lion” to describe his bravery. Lions are known for their courage and strength, so by calling him a lion, you’re saying that he has similar qualities.

Here are a few more examples to help you understand:

• “Her eyes are sparkling diamonds.” Here, the person’s eyes are being compared to diamonds to emphasize their brightness and beauty.
• “Time is money.” In this metaphor, time is compared to money to convey the idea that time, like money, is valuable and should be used wisely.
• “Life is a journey.” This metaphor suggests that life can be thought of as a journey, with ups and downs, detours, and destinations.
• “He has a heart of gold.” Here, someone’s kind and generous nature is being compared to a heart made of gold, emphasizing their good-heartedness.
• “The world is a stage.” This metaphor compares the world to a stage, suggesting that life is like a play with different roles and performances.

Metaphors help us see things in new and interesting ways. They add depth and layers of meaning to our language by comparing one thing to another. By using metaphors, we can express ourselves creatively and make our descriptions more engaging and imaginative.

Personification

Personification is a figure of speech that gives human qualities or attributes to non-human things or abstract concepts. It’s a way of making something (that is not alive or human) seem like it has human characteristics or abilities.

Let’s suppose you’re describing a storm. Instead of just saying, “The storm was loud and powerful,” you could use personification and say, “The storm roared and unleashed its fury.” By using the word “roared” and attributing the ability to unleash fury to the storm, you’re giving it human-like qualities of sound and emotions.

Personification helps us create a more vivid and relatable image in our minds. It helps us understand and connect with things that are not human by making them seem more familiar.

• “The flowers danced in the breeze.” Here, the flowers are given the human quality of dancing, even though flowers cannot literally dance.
• “The sun smiled down on us.” This personification gives the sun the human ability to smile, adding a sense of warmth and happiness to the description.
• “The leaves whispered secrets to each other.” By attributing the action of whispering secrets to leaves, this personification creates a sense of intimacy and secrecy among the leaves.
• “The car coughed and sputtered before finally starting.” The act of coughing and sputtering is typically associated with humans, but here it is attributed to a car, giving it human-like qualities.
• “Time flies .” This personification suggests that time moves quickly, just like a bird or an insect in flight.

Personification helps make our language more colorful and imaginative. By giving non-human things human qualities, we can relate to them better and create more engaging and memorable descriptions.

Alliteration

Alliteration is a literary technique that involves the repetition of the same sound or letter at the beginning of closely connected words or stressed syllables. It’s a way of creating a rhythmic and musical effect in writing or speech.

To understand alliteration, let’s look at an example. Suppose you want to describe a rainy day and you say, “The raindrops danced delicately on the roof.” The repetition of the “d” sound in “raindrops,” “danced,” and “delicately” is an example of alliteration. It adds a pleasing and melodic quality to the sentence.

• “Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.” This famous tongue twister is a playful example of alliteration, with the repeated “p” sound.
• “She sells seashells by the seashore.” In this phrase, the repeated “s” sound creates a smooth and flowing rhythm.
• “A big brown bear bounced on the bed.” The repeated “b” sound in this sentence adds emphasis and creates a strong beat.
• “Misty mountains majestically rise.” Here, the repeated “m” sound captures the sense of grandeur and adds a musical quality.
• “Silent as a shadow, he slipped through the night.” The repeated “s” sound in this sentence creates a sense of stealth and smoothness.

Alliteration is like a musical instrument in writing. It helps create a pleasing and rhythmic effect, making the language more memorable and engaging. It adds a touch of playfulness, emphasis, and sometimes even a sense of sound effects to the words.

Assonance is a literary device that involves the repetition of vowel sounds in nearby words. It’s a technique used to create a musical or melodic effect in writing or speech.

To understand assonance, let’s look at an example. Imagine you want to describe a serene lake, and you say, “The serene scene of the lake.” The repetition of the long “ee” sound in “serene,” “scene,” and “lake” is an example of assonance. It creates a soothing and harmonious quality in the sentence.

• “I feel the heat as I read.” In this sentence, the repeated “ee” sound in “feel,” “heat,” and “read” creates a flowing and musical effect.
• “The cat sat on the mat.” Here, the repeated short “a” sound in “cat,” “sat,” and “mat” adds a rhythmic quality to the sentence.
• “Hear the mellow wedding bells.” The repeated long “e” sound in “hear,” “mellow,” and “bells” creates a soft and melodic tone.
• “The owl howled at the moon.” In this example, the repeated long “o” sound in “owl” and “howled” adds emphasis and creates a haunting effect.
• “The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain.” This famous phrase from the musical “My Fair Lady” demonstrates assonance with the repeated long “a” sound.

Assonance helps create a musical and lyrical quality in writing. It adds a pleasing and melodic effect, making the language more memorable and engaging. Assonance, along with other sound devices like alliteration and rhyme, can enhance the overall beauty and rhythm of a piece of writing or speech.

Consonance is a literary device that involves the repetition of consonant sounds in nearby words, specifically in the middle or at the end of words. It is a technique used to create a harmonious and musical effect in writing or speech.

To understand consonance, let’s look at an example. Imagine you want to describe the sound of the waves, and you say, “The waves crashed and splashed.” The repeated “sh” sound in “crashed” and “splashed” is an example of consonance. It creates a soothing and rhythmic quality in the sentence.

• “Mike likes his bike.” In this sentence, the repeated “k” sound in “Mike,” “likes,” and “bike” adds a crisp and sharp quality to the sentence.
• “Pitter-patter, raindrops scatter.” The repeated “t” and “r” sounds in this phrase create a sense of lightness and quick movement.
• “She sells seashells by the seashore.” Here, the repeated “s” and “sh” sounds add a soft and smooth rhythm to the sentence.
• “The whisper of the wind.” In this example, the repeated “w” sound in “whisper” and “wind” creates a gentle and airy effect.
• “A sweet tweet from a little bird.” The repeated “t” sound in “sweet,” “tweet,” and “little” adds emphasis and creates a playful tone.

Consonance helps create a musical and harmonious quality in writing. It adds a pleasing and rhythmic effect, making the language more memorable and engaging. Consonance, along with other sound devices like alliteration and rhyme, can enhance the overall beauty and rhythm of a piece of writing or speech.

Anaphora is a literary device that involves the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences. It’s a technique used to add emphasis and create a powerful effect in writing or speech.

To understand anaphora, let’s look at an example. Imagine you want to inspire a group of people, and you say, “We will fight for justice. We will fight for equality. We will fight for a better future.” In this example, the repetition of the phrase “We will fight” at the beginning of each sentence is anaphora. It creates a sense of determination and reinforces the message.

• “I have a dream that one day… I have a dream that one day…” In Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous speech, the repetition of the phrase “I have a dream” at the beginning of multiple sentences emphasizes the vision and hope.
• “Love is patient. Love is kind. Love is selfless.” The repetition of the word “love” at the beginning of each sentence highlights different aspects of love.
• “Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.” In this phrase, the repetition of “let it snow” creates a sense of longing or excitement for snowfall.
• “I came, I saw, I conquered.” This famous quote from Julius Caesar demonstrates anaphora with the repetition of “I” at the beginning of each phrase, emphasizing the speaker’s actions.

Anaphora helps create a strong and memorable effect in writing or speech. By repeating words or phrases, it adds emphasis, rhythm, and power to the message being conveyed. Anaphora can be used to inspire, persuade, or create a sense of unity by reinforcing key ideas or themes.

An apostrophe is a figure of speech that involves addressing or speaking to someone or something that is not present or cannot respond as if they were present and able to listen. It’s a way of giving human-like qualities or directly addressing an absent person, an inanimate object, or even an abstract concept.

To understand apostrophe, let’s look at an example. Imagine you’re looking at a beautiful sunset, and you say, “Oh, Sun, your golden rays embrace the world.” In this sentence, you are directly addressing the Sun as if it can hear you and feel its rays. This is an example of apostrophe.

• “O, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?” In Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet, Juliet is speaking to Romeo, who is not physically present. She is expressing her longing for him.
• “O, Death, be not proud.” In John Donne’s poem “Death, be not proud,” the poet directly addresses death and challenges its power.
• “Ocean, you mighty force, swallow my sorrows.” Here, the speaker is speaking to the ocean, personifying it as a powerful entity capable of engulfing their sorrows.
• “Hello, old friend, how I’ve missed you.” This is an example of addressing an absent friend, expressing the speaker’s sentiment of longing or nostalgia.

Apostrophe allows writers and speakers to give life and voice to non-living things or absent individuals. It adds emotional depth, expresses intense feelings, and helps create a sense of connection with the subject being addressed. Apostrophe is a powerful tool to convey emotions, explore ideas, and create a dramatic effect in literature and poetry.

Hyperbole is a figure of speech that involves exaggeration or overstatement for emphasis or dramatic effect. It’s a way of making something sound much bigger, greater, or more extreme than it actually is.

To understand hyperbole, let’s look at an example. Imagine you’re really hungry, and you say, “I’m so hungry, I could eat a horse!” Now, of course, you don’t actually mean that you could eat an entire horse. By using hyperbole, you’re exaggerating your hunger to emphasize just how strong it is.

• “I’ve told you a million times!” Here, the speaker is exaggerating the number of times they have told someone something to emphasize their frustration.
• “This suitcase weighs a ton!” The speaker is exaggerating the weight of the suitcase to emphasize how heavy it feels.
• “I’m as old as the hills.” This hyperbole suggests that the speaker is very old, even though they may not be that old in reality.
• “She cried an ocean of tears.” This exaggeration emphasizes the intensity and amount of tears shed by the person.
• “I have a million things to do today.” The speaker is exaggerating the number of tasks they need to accomplish to emphasize a busy schedule.

Hyperbole helps create emphasis, adds humor, and makes a point more memorable. By using extreme exaggeration, writers and speakers can draw attention to a particular aspect or evoke strong emotions in their audience. It adds a touch of excitement and playfulness to the language.

Litotes is a figure of speech that involves expressing an idea by using understatement or negation to convey the opposite meaning. It’s a way of making a point by stating something in a negative or ironic way, rather than directly affirming it.

To understand litotes, let’s look at an example. Suppose someone asks you if you enjoyed a movie that you absolutely loved, and you respond, “Oh, it wasn’t bad.” By using litotes, you’re downplaying your true enthusiasm and expressing it indirectly. The negative statement of “wasn’t bad” actually means that you really enjoyed the movie.

• “She’s not unfamiliar with the topic.” This litotes suggests that the person is actually quite knowledgeable about the topic.
• “He’s not the friendliest person.” This understatement implies that the person is not very friendly at all.
• “It’s not a bad view from here.” This litotes implies that the view is actually quite good or impressive.
• “She’s no ordinary singer.” This statement suggests that the person is an exceptional or extraordinary singer.
• “He’s not unfamiliar with trouble.” This litotes implies that the person is frequently involved in troublesome situations.

Litotes allows writers and speakers to make a point indirectly by using a form of understatement or negation. It adds a layer of subtlety, irony, or modesty to the language, and can be used to downplay or highlight certain qualities or situations. Litotes adds depth and nuance to expressions and can be an effective way to make a statement more memorable.

Euphemism is a figure of speech that involves using mild or indirect words or phrases to replace harsh, blunt, or sensitive terms. It’s a way of softening or sugar-coating the language to convey a potentially uncomfortable or offensive idea in a more polite or socially acceptable manner.

To understand euphemism, let’s look at an example. Suppose someone is talking about a person who passed away, and instead of saying “he died,” they say “he passed away.” By using euphemism, they’re choosing a gentler phrase to talk about the sensitive topic of death.

• “She’s in a better place now.” This euphemism is often used to refer to someone who has died, suggesting that they are in a peaceful or happier state.
• “He’s let go from his job.” This euphemism is used to soften the idea of being fired or terminated from employment.
• “I’m under the weather.” This phrase is a euphemism for saying that you’re feeling sick or unwell.
• “She’s expecting.” This euphemism is used to indicate that someone is pregnant.
• “He’s a little challenged in that area.” This euphemism is used to avoid directly saying that someone is lacking in a particular skill or ability.

Euphemisms help us navigate sensitive or potentially offensive topics by using more polite or less harsh language. They allow us to convey ideas with a touch of diplomacy, respect, or cultural sensitivity. Euphemisms are widely used in social settings, formal contexts, or when discussing delicate matters. They provide a way to discuss difficult subjects while maintaining politeness and decorum.

Antithesis is a figure of speech that involves contrasting or juxtaposing two opposing ideas, words, or phrases within a sentence or paragraph. It’s a way of highlighting the stark contrast between two things to create a powerful effect or emphasize a point.

To understand antithesis, let’s look at an example. Suppose you want to describe a character who is both kind and cruel, and you say, “She was both the epitome of kindness and the embodiment of cruelty.” In this sentence, the contrasting ideas of kindness and cruelty are placed side by side, creating an antithesis. It emphasizes the stark opposition between the two qualities.

• “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” In this famous line from Charles Dickens’ novel “A Tale of Two Cities,” the contrast between the best and worst of times emphasizes the extreme nature of the era being described.
• “Love is an ideal thing, marriage a real thing.” This antithesis juxtaposes the idealized notion of love with the practical reality of marriage.
• “Give me liberty or give me death.” This well-known phrase by Patrick Henry highlights the choice between freedom and death, creating a powerful antithesis.
• “To err is human; to forgive, divine.” This antithesis contrasts the fallibility of human nature with the divine quality of forgiveness.

Antithesis allows writers and speakers to highlight the stark opposition between two contrasting ideas, emphasizing their differences and creating a strong impact. By placing contrasting words or phrases side by side, antithesis adds emphasis, drama, and clarity to the language. It can be used to convey deeper meaning, create memorable statements, or draw attention to the stark contrast between concepts.

A paradox is a figure of speech that involves a statement or situation that appears to be contradictory or absurd, but upon closer examination, reveals a deeper truth or logic. It’s a way of presenting a seemingly illogical or contradictory idea to provoke deeper thinking and contemplation.

To understand paradox, let’s look at an example. Imagine someone says, “I can resist anything except temptation.” At first, it may seem contradictory because resisting implies not giving in to something, while temptation suggests a strong desire to indulge. However, the paradox reveals the human struggle and the irony that resisting temptation can be particularly challenging.

• “The more you know, the more you realize you don’t know.” This paradox highlights the idea that as knowledge increases, awareness of one’s own ignorance also grows.
• “I’m nobody.” This paradoxical statement suggests that by claiming to be nobody, one may actually be asserting their individuality or unique perspective.
• “This is the beginning of the end.” This paradox captures the contradictory notion that an ending can also mark the start of something new.
• “You have to be cruel to be kind.” This paradox suggests that sometimes, an act of apparent cruelty can actually be a kind or compassionate action in the long run.

Paradoxes challenge our thinking by presenting ideas that seem contradictory on the surface but contain a deeper truth or insight. They engage our minds, provoke reflection, and encourage us to question assumptions and explore complexities. Paradoxes can be found in literature, philosophy, and everyday language, and they help us grapple with the complexities of life and the inherent contradictions within our world.

An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines two contradictory or opposite terms to create a new meaning or concept. It’s a way of expressing a paradoxical idea by placing contrasting words side by side.

To understand an oxymoron, let’s look at an example. Imagine someone says, “bittersweet.” The term “bitter” and “sweet” are opposites, as bitterness and sweetness are contradictory tastes. However, when used together as an oxymoron, “bittersweet” creates a unique meaning that expresses a complex blend of both positive and negative emotions.

• “Jumbo shrimp.” The word “jumbo” suggests something large, while “shrimp” refers to something small. Together, they create an oxymoron that plays on the contrasting sizes.
• “Living dead.” This oxymoron combines the idea of being alive (“living”) with the notion of being deceased (“dead”).
• “Deafening silence.” The word “deafening” suggests a loud and overwhelming sound, while “silence” refers to the absence of sound. This oxymoron creates a powerful image of a silence that is so profound it becomes almost overwhelming.
• “Cruel kindness.” This oxymoron combines the contrasting ideas of cruelty and kindness, suggesting a kind act that may have an unintended negative impact.

Oxymorons add depth, complexity, and intrigue to language. By combining contradictory terms, they create a vivid and memorable effect. Oxymorons often capture the nuances and complexities of human experiences by highlighting the coexistence of opposing elements. They challenge our expectations, provoke thought, and provide a fresh perspective on familiar concepts.

An epigram is a short and witty statement or verse that expresses a clever or insightful idea. It’s a concise and memorable way of conveying a thought, often with a touch of humor or irony.

To understand an epigram, let’s look at an example. Imagine someone saying, “I can resist everything except temptation.” This short statement by Oscar Wilde captures a clever twist on the idea of resisting temptation, highlighting the humorous struggle many people face.

• “In youth, we learn; in age, we understand.” This epigram by Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach captures the idea that as we grow older, we gain wisdom and a deeper understanding of life.
• “A little learning is a dangerous thing.” This epigram by Alexander Pope highlights the idea that having limited knowledge on a subject can be more harmful than having no knowledge at all.
• “I can resist everything but temptation.” This playful epigram by Oscar Wilde adds a humorous twist by emphasizing the difficulty of resisting temptation.
• “Honesty is the best policy, but insanity is a better defense.” This epigram plays on the idea that sometimes, unconventional or unexpected approaches can yield surprising results.

Epigrams are often used to encapsulate a complex idea concisely and cleverly. They provide a memorable way to express a thought, provoke thought, or offer a fresh perspective on a subject. Epigrams are commonly found in literature, speeches, and everyday conversations. They add a touch of wit, humor, and insight to the language, making them a powerful and engaging form of expression.

Irony is a figure of speech that involves the use of words or expressions to convey a meaning that is the opposite of their literal meaning. It is a way of using language to express a contrast between what is said and what is meant, or between what is expected to happen and what actually happens.

To understand irony, let’s look at an example. Imagine it’s raining heavily outside, and someone looks out the window and says, “What a beautiful day!” Here, the statement is ironic because the speaker’s words directly contradict the reality of the rainy weather.

There are three main types of irony:

• Verbal irony: This involves saying one thing but meaning the opposite. For example: “Oh, that’s just great. Now we’re really in trouble.” (said sarcastically when something goes wrong)
• Dramatic irony: This occurs when the audience or reader knows something that the characters in a story or play do not. For example: In the play “Romeo and Juliet,” the audience knows that Juliet is not really dead, but Romeo does not, and he kills himself in despair.
• Situational irony: This involves a situation in which the outcome is the opposite of what was expected or intended.
• A fire station burns down. This is an example of situational irony because it’s unexpected and contrary to what one would normally expect to happen.
• A dentist with bad teeth. This is an example of verbal irony because it’s a contradiction between what is said (a dentist is someone who takes care of teeth) and the situation (the dentist has bad teeth).
• A person saying “I love waking up early” when they’re known for always sleeping in. This is an example of irony because their words contradict their actions or reputation.
• A person saying “Great job!” sarcastically when someone makes a mistake. This is an example of dramatic irony because the person’s words convey the opposite of what they truly mean.

Irony adds depth and complexity to language by highlighting contradictions or unexpected outcomes. It can be used to convey humor, make a point, or create a sense of surprise. Irony often relies on context or an understanding of the situation to appreciate the contrast between what is expected and what actually occurs. It’s a powerful tool in literature, comedy, and everyday communication.

A pun is a figure of speech that involves the use of words that have multiple meanings or that sound similar to create a humorous or clever effect. It is a play on words that relies on the use of words that have more than one meaning or that sound similar to create a humorous or clever effect.

To understand a pun, let’s look at an example. Imagine someone says, “I used to be a baker, but I couldn’t make enough dough.” In this pun, the word “dough” has a double meaning. It can refer to the bread-making ingredient, but it is also used colloquially to mean money. The pun cleverly plays on this dual meaning to create a humorous effect.

• “I’m reading a book about anti-gravity. It’s impossible to put down!” This pun relies on the double meaning of “put down” as both physically placing something down and losing interest in a book.
• “I used to be a baker, but I couldn’t make enough bread. It wasn’t my knead.” This pun plays on the words “bread” and “knead,” using a word that sounds similar to “need” to create a humorous effect.
• “I’m glad I know sign language; it’s pretty handy.” This pun relies on the double meaning of “handy” as both having practical skills and being physically helpful.
• “Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field!” This pun uses the word “outstanding” to play on the idea of the scarecrow being exceptional in his field (the field where crops grow).

Puns are a form of wordplay that adds humor, cleverness, and wit to language. They rely on the multiple meanings, homophones (words that sound the same but have different meanings), or wordplay to create a humorous or clever effect. Puns can be found in jokes, advertising slogans, literature, and everyday conversations. They’re a playful and entertaining way to engage with language and tickle our funny bones.

Metonymy is a figure of speech that involves using a word or phrase to represent something closely associated with it, but not actually part of it. It’s a way of referring to something by mentioning another word or phrase that is related to it.

To understand metonymy, let’s look at an example. Imagine someone says, “The pen is mightier than the sword.” Here, the word “pen” is used to represent writing or communication, while the word “sword” symbolizes warfare or violence. The phrase suggests that the power of words and ideas (represented by the pen) can be more influential than physical force (represented by the sword).

• “The crown” refers to a king or queen. In this case, the word “crown” is used to represent the power and authority associated with royalty.
• “The White House issued a statement.” Here, “White House” is used to represent the government or the President of the United States, as the White House is closely associated with political decision-making.
• “Let me give you a hand.” In this expression, “hand” is used to represent assistance or help, indicating a willingness to support or lend a hand.
• “The press” refers to journalists or the media. Here, the word “press” is used to represent the industry or people involved in news reporting.

Metonymy allows us to use a word or phrase closely related to something to represent or refer to it. It adds depth, symbolism, and economy to language by using associations to convey meaning. Metonymy is commonly used in literature, poetry, speeches, and everyday conversations. It provides a way to express ideas concisely and indirectly, while still being understood within the context.

Synecdoche is a figure of speech that involves using a part of something to represent the whole or using the whole to represent a part. It’s a way of referring to something by mentioning a related, but distinct, part or whole.

To understand synecdoche, let’s look at an example. Imagine someone says, “All hands on deck!” Here, the word “hands” is used to represent the whole person or the entire crew on a ship. By referring to a part (hands), the speaker is actually referring to the larger group (the crew).

• “Nice wheels!” Here, the word “wheels” is used to refer to a car. The wheels are just a part of the car, but they represent the whole vehicle.
• “The law” refers to the police or legal system. In this case, the word “law” is used to represent the entire system of rules and law enforcement.
• “He’s a hired gun.” Here, the phrase “hired gun” is used to represent a person who is hired to carry out a specific task or job. The term “gun” refers to the person as a whole.

Synecdoche allows us to use a specific part or whole to represent something larger or smaller, creating a figurative meaning. It adds richness and depth to language by using associations and connections. Synecdoche can be found in literature, poetry, speeches, and everyday conversations. It provides a way to convey meaning in a concise and evocative manner by using familiar relationships between parts and wholes.

Onomatopoeia

Onomatopoeia is a figure of speech that involves using words that imitate or mimic the sound associated with the object or action they describe. It’s a way of creating a connection between the word and the sound it represents, making the text more vivid and engaging for the reader or listener.

To understand onomatopoeia, let’s look at some examples. Imagine the sound of a clock ticking, and someone says, “tick-tock.” Here, the word “tick-tock” imitates the actual sound made by the clock, creating an onomatopoeic effect.

• “Buzz” represents the sound of a bee flying around.
• “Boom” imitates the sound of an explosion.
• “Hiss” imitates the sound a snake makes.
• “Splash” imitates the sound of something falling into water.

Onomatopoeic words add a sense of realism, sensory experience, and sound imagery to writing. They allow readers to imagine or hear the sounds being described more vividly. Onomatopoeia is commonly used in literature, poetry, comic books, and children’s stories. By using words that imitate sounds, writers and speakers can bring their descriptions to life and engage the senses of their audience.

Classification of Figures of Speech

Figures of speech can be classified into various categories based on the different ways they manipulate language. Here are some common classifications of figures of speech:

• Simile: Comparing two things using “like” or “as” (e.g., “She sings like an angel”).
• Metaphor: Describing something by equating it with another unrelated thing (e.g., “He’s a shining star”).
• Metonymy: Using a word or phrase to represent something closely associated with it (e.g., “The pen is mightier than the sword”).
• Synecdoche: Using a part to represent the whole or vice versa (e.g., “All hands on deck”).
• Hyperbole: Exaggerating or overstating for emphasis or effect (e.g., “I’m so hungry, I could eat a horse”).
• Litotes: Understating or expressing something by negating its opposite (e.g., “She’s not unkind”).
• Alliteration: Repeating the same sound or letter at the beginning of closely connected words (e.g., “Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers”).
• Assonance: Repetition of similar vowel sounds within words (e.g., “fleet feet sweep by sleeping geese”).
• Apostrophe: Directly addressing an absent person or an abstract idea as if it were present (e.g., “O, Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo?”).
• Irony: Expressing something contrary to the intended meaning for humorous or dramatic effect (e.g., “The teacher said the test was easy, but it was actually very difficult”).
• Oxymoron: Combining two contradictory terms to create a new meaning (e.g., “bittersweet” or “jumbo shrimp”).
• Anaphora: Repeating the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences (e.g., “I have a dream… I have a dream…”).
• Epiphora or Epistrophe: Repeating the same word or phrase at the end of successive clauses or sentences (e.g., “When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child”).

These are just a few examples of how figures of speech can be classified. Note that some figures of speech may fall into multiple categories, and there can be variations and subcategories within each classification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of using figures of speech.

Figures of speech serve various purposes in communication. They add depth, creativity, and vividness to language, making it more engaging, memorable, and expressive. They help convey complex ideas, evoke emotions, create imagery, and enhance the overall impact of the message being communicated.

How do figures of speech enhance writing and speaking?

Figures of speech enhance writing and speaking by adding rhetorical devices and literary techniques that make the language more interesting and impactful. They capture the attention of the audience, evoke emotions, paint vivid pictures, and create a lasting impression. They make communication more persuasive, memorable, and engaging.

Can figures of speech be used in everyday conversations?

Absolutely! Figures of speech are not limited to formal writing or literature. They can be used in everyday conversations to make your speech more colorful, expressive, and engaging. Whether it’s using a simile to describe something, employing a metaphor to convey meaning, or utilizing a witty pun, figures of speech can add flair to your everyday communication.

How can one improve their use of figures of speech?

Improving the use of figures of speech involves developing a strong grasp of different types of figures of speech and their appropriate usage. Reading widely, exploring various literary works, and studying examples of figures of speech can enhance your understanding and help you recognize their applications in different contexts. Regular practice and experimentation in writing and speaking can also improve your ability to incorporate figures of speech effectively.

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Figures of Speech - Definition, Types and Usage with Examples

Are you as busy as a bee? Why not take some time off your busy schedule to learn how you can make your speech and writing sound and look extraordinary and engaging? There are many ways to make your language creative and interesting. One of the most effective ways to do it is to use figurative language. In this article, you will be introduced to what figures of speech are, their meaning and definition, the different types of figures of speech and how to use them effectively in sentences with examples.

Table of Contents

Definition of a Figure of Speech

Classification of figures of speech.

• How to Use a Figure of Speech in a Sentence? – Points to Remember

Examples of Figures of Speech

Frequently asked questions on figures of speech in english, what irs a figure of speech.

A figure of speech is an expression used to make a greater effect on your reader or listener. It includes making comparisons, contrasts, associations, exaggerations and constructions. It also gives a much clearer picture of what you are trying to convey.

Let us take a look at how different dictionaries define a figure of speech to have a much better idea of what it is.

A figure of speech, according to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, is defined as “a word or phrase used in a different way from its usual meaning in order to create a particular mental picture or effect.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines a figure of speech as “an expression that uses words to mean something different from their ordinary meaning.” According to the Collins Dictionary, a figure of speech is “an expression or word that is used with a metaphorical rather than a literal meaning.”

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a figure of speech as “ a form of expression (such as a simile or metaphor) used to convey meaning or heighten effect often by comparing or identifying one thing with another that has a meaning or connotation familiar to the reader or listener.” According to the Macmillan Dictionary, a figure of speech is defined as “an expression in which the words are used figuratively, not in their normal literal meaning.”

Figures of Speech in English Grammar

In English grammar , there are around fifteen to twenty figures of speech. However, there are a few of them which are used more often than the others. Let us look at the most commonly used figures of speech.

• Personification
• Alliteration
• Transferred Epithet

How to Use a Figure of Speech in English? – Points to Remember

You now know that a figure of speech can make your language look and sound a lot more poetical, interesting and flamboyant. However, the challenge is not about learning the different figures of speech but knowing when, where and how to use them. You cannot use it anywhere you like. Only if it is used right and where they are appropriate and necessary, will it make your language better.

Figures of speech are not meant to provide information literally, so it is not suggested that you use figurative language in professional presentations and writings like essays. Since they do not convey literal meanings, it is very important that you learn how each figure of speech can be used. What is more important is knowing what it would mean when used in a particular part of a sentence. So, the most significant point that you have to keep in mind when using figures of speech is to employ them only if they give you the desired effect and meaning.

The figures of speech can be categorized into types based on their functions when used in sentences. Accordingly, the main categories are composed of ones that:

• Show a Relationship or Resemblance
• Show Phonetic Resemblances and Representing Sounds
• Show Emphasis or Unimportance

Showing a Relationship or Resemblance

This category includes figures of speech which are designed to make comparisons to show a relationship or some resemblances. Similes, metaphors, personification, euphemism, metonymy and synecdoche are the figures of speech used for this purpose.

Showing Phonetic Resemblances and Representing Sounds

This category of figures of speech include alliteration, assonance and onomatopoeia. The first two figures of speech are used to create an effect by using similar sounding words or words starting with the same consonant and vowel sounds, whereas onomatopoeia includes words that are used to represent sounds.

Showing Emphasis or Unimportance

The figures of speech belonging to this category are used to provide emphasis or show how important or unimportant something is. Hyperbole, antithesis, oxymoron, irony and litotes are figures of speech that can be used for this purpose.

Here are a few examples of the different figures of speech in English grammar.

• Simile – Rachel is as bright as the sun.
• Metaphor – The whole world is a stage.
• Personification – The wind whispered in my ears.
• Apostrophe – O William, you should be living now to see all this.
• Alliteration – Sally sold some seashells.
• Assonance – I seem to like your little green trees.
• Hyperbole – I am so hungry I could eat a horse.
• Oxymoron – Euthanizing their sick pet dog was considered as an act of kind cruelty.
• Epigram – The child is the father of man.
• Irony – A fire station burned down yesterday.
• Pun – Life depends upon the liver.
• Metonymy – The Bench decided that the man is guilty.
• Synecdoche – We need more hands to help us move this cupboard.
• Transferred Epithet – She had a sleepless night.

What is a figure of speech?

What is the definition of a figure of speech.

A figure of speech, according to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, is defined as “a word or phrase used in a different way from its usual meaning in order to create a particular mental picture or effect.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines a figure of speech as “an expression that uses words to mean something different from their ordinary meaning.” According to the Collins Dictionary, a figure of speech is “an expression or word that is used with a metaphorical rather than a literal meaning.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a figure of speech as “ a form of expression (such as a simile or metaphor) used to convey meaning or heighten effect often by comparing or identifying one thing with another that has a meaning or connotation familiar to the reader or listener.” According to the Macmillan Dictionary, a figure of speech is defined as “an expression in which the words are used figuratively, not in their normal literal meaning.”

What are the different figures of speech in English?

Here is a list of the different figures of speech in English.

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Irony Examples: Figure of Speech For Students

admin February 28, 2019 Figures of Speech 5,325 Views

Irony Examples:

Ironical statements.

• One of the identical twins says to the other, “You’re ugly!”
• I saw a fish drowning.
• Many things can be preserved in alcohol. Dignity is not one of them.
• Never argue with a fool. People might not know the difference.
• Marriage is the leading cause of divorce
• I have been down so long, it looks like up to me.

Coincidental Ironies

• Britain’s biggest dog was named Tiny.
• Two marriage therapists got divorced from each other.
• Most tobacco company executives don’t smoke.
• Titanic, which was touted as “100% unsinkable”, sank on its maiden voyage.
• The supreme irony of life is that hardly anyone gets out of it alive.
• A ninety-eight year old man won the lottery and died the next day.
• My friend, who is an incredibly successful artist and writer, often has dreams that are bland and dull.
• A class on prophecy at a church was postponed due to some unforeseen circumstance
• Do you know that fear for a long word is called Hippopotomonstrosesquippedalio phobia?
• Hitler ‘s Grandmother was Jewish.
• The only reason there are evil people in the world is because there are good people in the world.
• A man died in his living room!
• Canada is owned by Britain, yet half the people there speak French.
• Coffee City is a city in Texas, mostly visited to buy beer.
• My family owns a dairy, I work at a frozen yogurt shop and I just found out I’m lactose intolerant.
• The world’s largest ice cream cone is made by a factory called ‘Tiny Dairies’!
• The owner of a butcher shop is a vegetarian!
• A restaurant called “Hard Times Cafe” has closed down because of the recession!
• The water vendor died of thirst!
• A restaurant with the name “Firewood Cafe” was actually on fire!
• The dictionary entry for “short” is really, really long!
• The only word that you spelled right in this spelling test is “illiterate”.
• “Stand by your Man” is one of the biggest hit songs sung by Tammy Wynette’s who has been married six times in her real life.
• Do you know that there is a song about the phobia of music?
• The White House isn’t white.
• I put on an outfit in the morning and didn’t like it, after spending an hour trying on other clothes, I ended up trying back on the same outfit I started with and wore it for the day.
• A seminar on Global Warming was cancelled due to snow.
• An obese teacher is teaching the class about healthy food or physical exercise!
• A class on “planning and scheduling” was cancelled due to poor planning.
• An atheist sues for religious discrimination

Situational Irony

• Posting a video about how boring and useless Facebook is on Facebook.
• My friend said he can’t go to church because he has a theology test to study for!
• The firehouse burns down.
• The police station was robbed.
• The teacher failed the test.
• The student who didn’t study passed the test.
• The marriage counselor gets a divorce
• “Water, water, everywhere, And all the boards did shrink; Water, water, everywhere, Nor any drop to drink.”
• A girl was going on about how she wouldn’t hurt animals when I noticed she was wearing a leather belt.
• He is a pilot but, is afraid of heights.

Irony Examples In Literature

• “Yet Brutus says he was ambitious; And Brutus is an honorable man” – Julius Caesar.
• Romeo returns to Verona and he finds Juliet drugged, in a death-like sleep. He assumes she is dead and kills himself. When Juliet wakes up and finds him dead, she kills herself with his knife – Romeo and Juliet.
• Ray Bradbury’s book Fahrenheit 451 is consistently on the top 100 list of banned books in the US .

Ironical News

• Libya’s Muammar Gaddafi, the self-styled “eternal revolutionary”, who took power in a coup 42 years ago, is himself being deposed in a revolution.
• A Harvard University fellow, who was studying ethics, was charged with hacking into the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s computer network to steal nearly 5 million academic articles.

Being a part of speech used on a regular basis, ironies are familiar to many of us. Of course, we never look into whether the usage is correct or not, but it is always better to learn about the different kinds of ironies and their usages. It is very important as there are chances that sometimes you may even get confused with much similar concept of sarcasm. Though both irony and sarcasm appear to be overlapping, both of them are totally different concepts. Hope the examples given in this article helped you to understand the concept ‘irony’ better.

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Table of Contents

Introduction.

Irony is a figure of speech where the intended meaning of words or actions is opposite to their literal or expected meaning, often creating a humorous or thought-provoking effect.

In this article, we will define this figure of speech and illustrate it with examples from literature.

Let’s start with the definition of irony!

What is irony?

Irony is a figure of speech in which there is a contradiction of expectation between what is said and what is really meant . It is characterized by an incongruity, a contrast, between reality and appearance.

An example of irony is when a fire station burns down while the firefighters are responding to a call at a neighboring building.

The term “irony” comes from the Greek word “ eironeia ,” which originally referred to a dissimulating or feigned ignorance, and later evolved to denote a contrast between appearance and reality in literature and speech.

Types of Irony

There are three types of irony: verbal , dramatic , and situational .

• It is a contrast between what is said and what is meant
• Example: During a heavy rainstorm, someone looks out the window and says, “What lovely weather we’re having!”
• It occurs when the audience or the reader knows more than the character about events. In other words, what the character thinks is true is inconsistent with what the audience knows.
• Example: In “The Green Mile”, John Coffey possesses the power to heal ailments and even resurrect the dead, yet he is unjustly accused and convicted of a heinous crime. The irony deepens as the audience witnesses this juxtaposition between Coffey’s capacity for healing and his enormous physical strength, capable of causing harm. This figure of speech becomes a powerful element in the narrative, emphasizing the complexities of human nature and challenging preconceived notions about good and evil.
• This refers to the contrast between the actual result of a situation and what was intended or expected to happen.
• A fire station catches fire while the firefighters are responding to an emergency in another part of the town.

Why Do Writers Use Irony?

Writers use irony for several reasons, as it adds depth, complexity, and nuance to their storytelling. Here are some primary reasons why writers use it:

• Enhancing Complexity: This figure of speech allows writers to introduce layers of meaning and complexity into their narratives. By juxtaposing what is expected with what actually occurs, writers create a more intricate and thought-provoking story.
• Engaging the Audience: This figure of speech captivates readers or viewers by challenging their expectations. It prompts them to think critically about the narrative, characters, and themes, fostering a deeper engagement with the material.
• Highlighting Themes: It can be a powerful tool for emphasizing themes and messages within a work. By presenting situations where the outcome is contrary to expectations, writers can underscore larger ideas or social commentary.
• Creating Humor: It is often used for comedic effect. When there is a contrast between what is said or expected and what actually happens, it can evoke laughter or amusement, adding a lighter tone to the narrative.
• Building Suspense: Dramatic irony, where the audience knows something the characters do not, can be an effective way to build suspense. This creates tension as readers eagerly anticipate the unfolding consequences of the characters’ actions.
• Challenging Assumptions: It challenges preconceived notions and societal expectations. It allows writers to subvert conventional ideas, revealing the incongruities between appearance and reality, and prompting readers to question their own beliefs.
• Conveying Critique or Satire: It is often employed in satire and social commentary. By presenting situations or characters in an ironic light, writers can critique societal norms, behaviors, or institutions in a subtle yet impactful manner.

Examples of Irony

Here are some examples of Irony with explanations:

• Explanation: This is an example of verbal irony. The phrase “clear as mud” is a figurative expression that means something is confusing or unclear. When someone says, “His argument was as clear as mud,” it’s ironic because it suggests the argument was not clear at all, contrary to what the words literally mean.
• Explanation: This is an example of situational irony. Identical twins are expected to look very similar, if not identical. However, in this situation, one twin telling the other “You’re ugly” creates an unexpected and ironic contrast, as they are genetically identical. The irony lies in the unexpected divergence from the usual expectation of identical twins looking alike.
• Explanation: This is an example of situational irony. A police station is typically a place where law enforcement is based, and it’s expected to be secure. In this situation, the fact that thieves successfully rob the police station is ironic because it goes against the usual expectations. The irony lies in the reversal of roles, where the supposed guardians of law and order become the victims of a crime.
• Explanation : The situation did not go well, but the expression suggests the opposite.
• Explanation : The praise suggests approval, but the speaker is actually expressing disapproval.
• Explanation: The statement implies frustration, but the words used suggest the opposite.
• Explanation: The situation is described as delightful, but the term “mess” contradicts this positive expression.
• Explanation: The use of “perfect” suggests approval, but the context indicates the opposite.
• Explanation: The speaker uses a positive word like “wonderful” to describe a situation usually considered negative.
• Explanation: The speaker sarcastically comments on the great weather when the reality is adverse.
• Explanation: The term “genius” is used sarcastically to highlight the opposite quality in the person.

Examples of Irony in Literature

Examples of irony are frequent in literature. The incorporation of this stylistic device in literary works adds depth, complexity, and often a layer of intrigue to storytelling. Here are some illustrative examples:

OEDIPUS       Then I will start afresh, and once again       shed light on darkness. It is most fitting       that Apollo demonstrates his care       for the dead man, and worthy of you, too.       And so you’ll see how I will work with you,       as is right, seeking vengeance for this land,       as well as for the god. This polluting stain       I will remove, not for some distant friends,       but for myself. For whoever killed this man       may soon enough desire to turn his hand       to punish me in the same way, as well.       Thus, in avenging Laius, I serve myself.       But now, my children, quickly as you can       stand up from these altar steps and raise       your suppliant branches. Someone must call       the Theban people to assemble here.       I’ll do everything I can. With the god’s help       this will all come to light successfully,       or else will prove our common ruin. From “Oedipus Rex” by Sophocles’

Sophocles’ “ Oedipus Rex ” is an example of dramatic irony . The audience knows that Oedipus is the murderer he is trying to find, while Oedipus remains unaware of his true identity. This creates suspense and tension as the audience anticipates the tragic revelation.

“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.”  From “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austin

The opening line from “ Pride and Prejudice ” by Jane Austen is an example of verbal irony . The statement begins with what seems like a universally accepted truth, but as the story unfolds, the irony becomes evident.

The novel explores the complexities of relationships and challenges the initial notion that a wealthy single man must inevitably be seeking a wife. The irony lies in the contrast between the apparent truth stated and the nuanced realities revealed in the narrative.

All of a sudden she discovered, in a black satin box, a superb diamond necklace, and her heart began to beat with an immoderate desire. Her hands trembled as she took it. She fastened it round her throat, outside her high-necked waist, and was lost in ecstasy at her reflection in the mirror. Then she asked, hesitating, filled with anxious doubt: “Will you lend me this, only this?” “Why, yes, certainly.” She threw her arms around her friend’s neck, kissed her passionately, then fled with her treasure. From “ The Necklace ” by Guy de Maupassant

“The Necklace” by Guy de Maupassant provides a good example of situational irony .

Mathilde Loisel, the main character in Guy de Maupassant’s “ The Necklace ,” borrows a diamond necklace from a friend to enhance her appearance at a luxurious ball, aiming to appear affluent. However, her plans take a tragic turn as she loses the jewels, leading to financial ruin for both her and her husband.

Ironically, in the story’s conclusion, Mathilde discovers that the jewels she sacrificed so much to replace were, in fact, fake, adding a poignant twist to the narrative.

In summary, irony is a powerful and multifaceted literary device that transcends the mere surface of words, injecting narratives with layers of complexity and depth. It can be classified into three types—verbal, dramatic, and situational—each contributing a distinct flavor to the storytelling palette.

This stylistic device adds richness to literature by challenging expectations, engaging readers through subtle twists, and offering a nuanced exploration of themes. If you incorporate irony into your writing, you will not only captivate your audience but also elevate the sophistication and impact of your narrative, fostering a more profound connection between the text and the reader.

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Top 20 Figures of Speech with Definitions and Examples

As an English learner, you probably would have heard of metaphor, personification, or simile. These are the most common types of figures of speech in English. Figures of speech play a significant role in English speaking and writing . You don’t necessarily use all types of figures of speech on a daily basis, but they act as a powerful tool in writing. In this article, we’ll go over the top 20 figures of speech that you need to know to improve your overall English language skills.

What is a Figure of Speech?

A figure of speech is a way of using language that goes beyond its literal meaning to convey a more vivid or imaginative expression. It involves the use of words or phrases in a non-literal sense to create a specific effect or emphasize a point. Figures of speech add color, creativity, and depth to language, making communication more interesting and engaging.

Importance of Figures of Speech

Figures of speech make language more interesting and expressive. They help convey emotions, create mental images, and emphasize ideas. By using metaphors, similes, and other figures of speech, speakers and writers can make their communication more vivid and memorable. These tools also add creativity to literature, contribute to cultural expressions, and play a role in humor. Overall, figures of speech enhance communication by making it more engaging, impactful, and versatile.

List of 20 Figures of Speech with Definitions and Examples

A simile is a figure of speech that compares two different things using the words “like” or “as” to highlight a shared characteristic. It helps create vivid and imaginative descriptions.

Example: As brave as a lion.

Explanation: Emphasizes the person’s courage by likening it to the well-known bravery of a lion.

2. Metaphor

A metaphor is a figure of speech that implies a comparison between two unrelated things, suggesting that they share common characteristics without using “like” or “as.” It is a way of describing one thing as if it were another to create a deeper understanding or evoke a specific image.

Example: Time is a thief.

Explanation: Time is compared to a thief to convey the idea that it steals moments or experiences.

3. Personification

Personification is a figure of speech in which human attributes or qualities are given to non-human entities or objects. It involves treating something non-human as if it has human-like characteristics.

Example: The wind whispered through the trees.

Explanation: Personifies the wind by attributing the human quality of whispering to it.

4. Hyperbole

A hyperbole is a figure of speech that involves exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally. It is used to emphasize a point, create emphasis, or add dramatic effect.

Example: I’ve told you a million times to clean your room

Explanation: The exaggeration of a million times emphasizes the speaker’s frustration or annoyance. The person didn’t actually say it a million times.

5. Alliteration

Alliteration is a series of words in a sentence or phrase that share the same initial consonant sound. It is often used to create rhythm, emphasize a particular sound, or make language more memorable.

Example: Sally sells seashells by the seashore

Explanation: The repetition of the “s” sound adds a musical quality to the sentence.

6. Assonance

Assonance is where the repetition of vowel sounds occurs within nearby words in a sentence or phrase. It is used for musicality, emphasis, or to create a specific mood.

Example: Hear the mellow wedding bells

Explanation: The repetition of the long “e” sound enhances the melodic quality of the expression.

Irony is a discrepancy between what is said and what is meant, or between appearances and reality. It often involves a twist or contradiction that may be humorous, thought-provoking, or even tragic. An example of irony is situational irony, where a fire station burns down; this situation is ironic because a place dedicated to preventing fires becomes the victim of one.

8. Oxymoron

An oxymoron combines contradictory or opposing words to create a paradoxical effect. It is used to convey complexity, irony, or a unique perspective.

Example: jumbo shrimp

Explanation: The juxtaposition of “jumbo” and “shrimp” creates a contrasting and somewhat humorous image.

9. Onomatopoeia

Onomatopoeia is a figure of speech where words imitate the natural sounds associated with the objects or actions they refer to. These words are often used to evoke a sensory experience and bring a vivid quality to language.

Example: buzz

Explanation: The word itself imitates the sound of a buzzing bee.

10. Euphemism

A euphemism is a mild or indirect expression used to replace a harsh or blunt phrase that might be considered impolite, offensive, or too direct. It is often employed to soften the impact of sensitive or uncomfortable topics.

Example: Using “passed away” instead of “died” to refer to someone’s death

Explanation: “Passed away” is considered more gentle and considerate than “died.”

As a figure of speech, a cliché refers to an expression, idea, or phrase that has been so overused that it has lost its originality and impact. It involves using a predictable or stereotyped phrase that may lack creativity.

Example: Saying “quiet as a mouse” to describe silence is a cliché

Explanation: The phrase is often used and has become a common expression.

12. Allusion

An allusion involves referencing a well-known person, place, event, or work of art within a conversation, text, or speech. It allows the speaker or writer to convey complex ideas or emotions by drawing on the associations and meanings attached to the referenced element.

Example: Saying someone has “the Midas touch.”

Explanation: It is an allusion to the mythical King Midas, known for turning everything he touched into gold, suggesting a person’s ability to turn things successful or prosperous.

13. Anaphora

Anaphora is a figure of speech where a word or phrase is repeated at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences. It is used for emphasis, rhythm, and to create a powerful impact.

Example: Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech

Explanation: He repeatedly begins sentences with “I have a dream” to highlight and reinforce his vision for a better future.

14. Chiasmus

Chiasmus is a figure of speech where the order of words or phrases in one clause is reversed in the following clause. This creates a balanced and often symmetrical structure, adding emphasis and style to the expression.

Example: Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.

Explanation: The order of the terms is reversed in the second part, creating a memorable and impactful rhetorical structure.

15. Litotes

Litotes is a figure of speech that uses double negatives or understatement to emphasize an idea by negating its opposite.

Example: Not bad

Explanation: Conveys that something is good but in a subtle or understated manner.

16. Paradox

A paradox is a statement or situation that appears self-contradictory or absurd, but in reality, it illustrates a deeper truth or logic, often highlighting the complexities and nuances of a concept.

Example: Less is more

Explanation: The apparent contradiction suggests that simplicity or having less can sometimes be more effective or valuable.

17. Epistrophe

Epistrophe is a figure of speech where a word or phrase is repeated at the end of successive clauses or sentences. It is used to create emphasis, rhythmic effect, and a memorable expression.

Example: Abraham Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address”

Explanation: “…and that government of the people, by the people, for the people…” The repetition of “people” occurs at the end of each phrase for emphasis.

18. Synecdoche

Synecdoche is a figure of speech in which a part of something is used to represent the whole, or vice versa. It involves substituting a specific attribute or component for the entire entity.

Example: All hands on deck

Explanation: This means that everyone (the hands) is needed to help, representing the entire person.

19. Antithesis

Antithesis is a figure of speech that involves the juxtaposition of contrasting ideas or words within parallel grammatical structures. It is used to emphasize the stark contrast between two opposing elements.

Example: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” from Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities

Explanation: The contrasting ideas of “best” and “worst” highlight the dual nature of the time period described.

20. Apostrophe

Apostrophe, as a figure of speech, is when a speaker addresses an absent or imaginary person, a non-living object, or an abstract concept as if it were present and capable of responding. It often involves a strong emotional expression.

Example: Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” when Mark Antony says, “O, pardon me, thou bleeding piece of earth,”

Explanation: Addresses the lifeless body of Caesar as if it could hear and respond.

FAQs About Figures of Speech

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about figures of speech in English.

What are the 12 main figures of speech?

The 12 main figures of speech include simile, metaphor, personification, hyperbole, onomatopoeia, alliteration, assonance, euphemism, oxymoron, allusion, chiasmus, and litotes.

What are the 10 types of figure of speech and their meaning?

The 10 types of figures of speech and their meanings are:

• Simile: Comparing two unlike things using “like” or “as.”
• Metaphor: Implies a resemblance between unrelated things without using “like” or “as.”
• Personification: Giving human characteristics to non-human entities.
• Hyperbole: Exaggerating statements for emphasis or effect.
• Onomatopoeia: Words imitating natural sounds.
• Alliteration: Repetition of initial consonant sounds in nearby words.
• Assonance: Repetition of vowel sounds within nearby words.
• Euphemism: Substituting a milder or indirect expression for a harsh or blunt one.
• Oxymoron: Combining contradictory terms to create a paradoxical effect.
• Allusion: Referencing a well-known person, place, event, or work of art.

What are 5 examples of personification?

Here are 5 examples of personification:

• The sun smiled down on the beach.
• The wind whispered through the trees.
• Time flies when you’re having fun.
• The flowers danced in the breeze.
• The alarm clock screamed at me to wake up.

How many figures of speech are there in total?

According to Professor Rober Diyanni, “rhetoricians have catalogues more than 250 different figures of speech.” However, there are mainly 10-20 figures of speech there are commonly used.

Is my shoes are killing me a hyperbole?

“My shoes are killing me” is hyperbole because it is an exaggerated statement meant to convey extreme discomfort, not to be taken literally.

What are some examples of hyperbole?

Here are 5 examples of hyperbole:

• I have a million things to do.
• It’s raining cats and dogs.
• This suitcase weighs a ton.
• I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.
• The queue at the amusement park is a mile long.

Is idiom a figure of speech?

Yes, an idiom is a type of figure of speech. Idioms are expressions whose meanings cannot be inferred from the literal interpretation of their individual words.

More English Resources

If you want to learn more about the English language, check out the following topics.

• Choose your Own Adventure ESL Writing Activity
• Sequence Words: Meaning and Examples in English
• American English Idioms and Phrases to Learn
• 100 Common English Questions and How to Answer Them
• Parts of Speech Activities ESL | Adverbs, Articles, Nouns, Verbs

Figures of Speech: Join the Conversation

Which figure of speech interests you the most? Choose one and try creating an example yourself. When you’re done, share yours in the comments! We’d love to hear from you.

About Jackie

Jackie Bolen has been teaching English for more than 15 years to students in South Korea and Canada. She's taught all ages, levels and kinds of TEFL classes. She holds an MA degree, along with the Celta and Delta English teaching certifications.

Jackie is the author of more than 100 books for English teachers and English learners, including 101 ESL Activities for Teenagers and Adults and 1001 English Expressions and Phrases . She loves to share her ESL games, activities, teaching tips, and more with other teachers throughout the world.

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