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.
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.
serious
'ernst' and 'ironisch' are often opposites when it comes to statements or tone. If someone says something 'ernst' or 'meint es ernst' (is serious), the person really means it that way and not as a joke. If someone says something 'ironisch', the person often means the opposite of what they literally say. You can usually recognize this from the tone of voice or the situation. The words can be confused because both describe how a statement is meant. If you are unsure, ask: Does the person mean it literally and genuinely? Then it is 'ernst'. Do they actually mean something else? Then it is 'ironisch'.
Als der Drucker wieder kaputtging, sagte sie ironisch: „Das klappt ja wunderbar.“
When the printer broke again, she said ironically, "Well, this is working wonderfully."
Nimm die Warnung bitte ernst, denn die Straße ist heute sehr glatt.
Please take the warning seriously, because the road is very slippery today.