ironically

ironically — adverb

1. used when a situation produces the opposite result from what people expected, of

1.副詞B2
釋義

used when a situation produces the opposite result from what people expected, often creating a strange or amusing effect

例句

Ironically, Mayumi avoided dairy for years, then got a job on a cheese farm.

sentence adverb: modifies whole following clause

The security system, ironically, was what let the thief into the building.

mid-position: placed between commas

同義詞
  • paradoxically

    implies a logical contradiction, stronger than ironically

  • oddly enough

    more conversational and less formal

  • strangely

    focuses on the surprising quality without the sense of contradiction

反義詞

文法句型

Ironically, + [clause]

[Clause] , ironically, ...

用法筆記

Commonly used as a sentence adverb at the start of a clause, affecting the whole statement rather than a single verb. The contrast must be between what was expected and what actually happened; mere coincidence is not enough.

常見錯誤

❌Ironically, I also had cereal for breakfast.
✅Coincidentally, I also had cereal for breakfast.
💡'ironically' requires a contrast with expectation, not just a shared detail.
❌Ironically, the sun came out after it stopped raining.
✅As expected, the sun came out after the rain cleared.
💡rain stopping and sun appearing is normal, not ironic.

2. using words to express a meaning contrary to their literal sense, typically for

2.副詞B2
釋義

using words to express a meaning contrary to their literal sense, typically for humorous or gently critical effect

例句

"What a beautiful day," Mert said ironically as the storm poured rain onto the street.

speech verb + ironically: said ironically + quoted statement

Camila smiled ironically when her boss praised her punctuality after keeping her waiting.

verb of expression + ironically: smiled ironically

同義詞
  • sarcastically

    more cutting and intended to mock or hurt

  • wryly

    amused and mildly bitter, gentler than sarcastically

  • tongue in cheek

    informal phrase meaning not meant seriously

反義詞

文法句型

[speech verb] + ironically

say/remark/note + ironically

用法筆記

Often pairs with speech or expression verbs (said, remarked, noted, smiled). The ironic meaning is usually signalled by context — the words do not match the situation. Unlike sense 1, this sense describes the manner of speaking rather than a whole situation.

常見錯誤

❌He ironically said he was happy.
✅He said he was happy, but his tone suggested the opposite.
💡placing 'ironically' before 'said' can be confusing; readers may think the adverb modifies the whole statement rather than the manner of speaking.

❌ Using 'ironically' as a synonym for 'sarcastically' in all contexts. 'Sarcastically' is more intended to hurt or mock; 'ironically' is gentler and often humorous.