Question
Define and example of the word verbal irony
Answers
GPT-4o mini
Verbal irony is a figure of speech in which the speaker says something but means the opposite, often for humorous or emphatic effect. It relies on the context and the tone of voice to convey the true meaning, as the literal words may suggest something different.
**Example:**
Imagine someone stepping outside on a rainy day without an umbrella and saying, "What a lovely day!" In this case, the speaker is using verbal irony because the words imply enjoyment of good weather, while the reality of the rain contradicts that statement. The audience understands that the speaker does not genuinely believe it is a lovely day.
**Example:**
Imagine someone stepping outside on a rainy day without an umbrella and saying, "What a lovely day!" In this case, the speaker is using verbal irony because the words imply enjoyment of good weather, while the reality of the rain contradicts that statement. The audience understands that the speaker does not genuinely believe it is a lovely day.