Lesson 6: Irony, Oxymoron, & Paradox

Key vocabulary terms defining and distinguishing Irony, Oxymoron, and Paradox, along with their major sub-types and uses.

Irony

A literary or rhetorical device in which what actually happens is the opposite of what is expected or intended, often producing humor or emphasis.

Situational Irony

A form of irony in which the outcome of a situation is the exact opposite of what was anticipated (e.g., a thief being robbed on his way home).

Verbal Irony

A form of irony where someone says the opposite of what they truly mean, typically for humorous or emphatic effect (e.g., saying “What a pleasant surprise!” when a store is a mess).

Oxymoron

A two-word (or short) phrase that combines contradictory or opposing terms to create a striking expression (e.g., “bittersweet,” “genuine fake,” “living dead”).

Paradox

A statement that appears self-contradictory or absurd but reveals an underlying truth when examined closely (e.g., “The more you try to impress people, the less they notice”).

Purpose of Using Irony, Oxymoron, and Paradox

Writers and speakers use these devices to create humor, deepen meaning, highlight contradictions, provoke thought, or emphasize a point to the audience.