ironic
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ironic
A statement that means the opposite of what is said, often to create a humorous or critical effect. The true meaning becomes clear through tone of voice or context.
„Ein tolles Wetter heute“, sagte er ironisch, während es in Strömen regnete.
"Lovely weather today," he said ironically, while it was pouring rain.
ironic
Refers to a situation or event that, in a paradoxical or unexpected way, represents the opposite of what one would expect. Often referred to as 'Ironie des Schicksals' (irony of fate).
Es ist schon ironisch, dass der Feueralarm in der Feuerwache ausbrach.
It is quite ironic that the fire alarm went off at the fire station.
The adjective 'ironisch' (ironic) belongs to the noun 'die Ironie' (irony). Both words describe the same concept, just as different parts of speech.
Seine ironische Bemerkung sorgte für Verwirrung.
His ironic remark caused confusion.
You distinguish the meanings by context: If 'ironisch' (ironic) refers to a person's statement or action, the first meaning is intended. If it describes a paradoxical situation, the second meaning is intended.
Er sagte mit einem ironischen Lächeln: „Ich freue mich riesig auf die Prüfung.“
He said with an ironic smile: "I'm really looking forward to the exam."
When an action is ironic, 'ironisch' (ironically) is used as an adverb and usually stands directly with the verb. It then describes the manner in which something is said or done.
Sie klatschte ironisch, als der Redner endlich fertig war.
She clapped ironically when the speaker was finally finished.
To describe a paradoxical situation, the fixed structure 'Es ist ironisch, dass ...' (It is ironic that ...) is often used, followed by a subordinate clause.
Es ist ironisch, dass die neue Software zur Zeitersparnis mehr Zeit kostet als die alte.
It is ironic that the new software meant to save time takes more time than the old one.
paradoxical
When describing an event, ironisch (ironic) indicates an unexpected twist that noticeably goes against what was expected. Paradox describes a statement or situation that seems contradictory or illogical but may nevertheless be meaningful or true. Use ironisch for an irony of fate and paradox for an apparent contradiction.
Es war ironisch, dass ausgerechnet der vorsichtigste Fahrer den einzigen Unfall des Tages hatte.
It was ironic that the most careful driver of all was the one who had the only accident of the day.
Es klingt paradox, dass mehr Auswahl die Entscheidung manchmal schwieriger macht.
It sounds paradoxical that having more choices sometimes makes a decision more difficult.
