Irony vs Sarcasm: What’s the Difference?
The difference at a glance
Irony is a literary device highlighting incongruity between expectation and reality. Sarcasm is a form of verbal irony specifically intended to mock, ridicule, or wound.
Example sentences are illustrative learning examples, not verified quotations.
What does Irony mean?
noun · /ˈaɪ.rə.ni/
The expression of meaning through language that signifies the opposite — often with a tone or context that makes the intended meaning clear. Situational irony occurs when circumstances produce the opposite of expected outcomes. Dramatic irony is when the audience knows something characters do not.
Explore IronyIrony in a sentence
Socratic irony is the dissembling of ignorance to draw out the interlocutor's own contradictions.
Alanis Morissette's 'Ironic' is famously not ironic — the situations described are unfortunate coincidences, not irony.
What does Sarcasm mean?
noun · /ˈsɑːkæz(ə)m/
The use of irony to mock or convey contempt; a sharp, bitter, or cutting expression or remark made with intent to hurt.
Explore SarcasmSarcasm in a sentence
'Brilliant plan,' she said, her sarcasm as subtle as a thunderclap.
Sarcasm rarely persuades — it more often hardens the position of the person it's aimed at.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Irony and Sarcasm?
Irony is a literary device highlighting incongruity between expectation and reality. Sarcasm is a form of verbal irony specifically intended to mock, ridicule, or wound.
What does Irony mean?
The expression of meaning through language that signifies the opposite — often with a tone or context that makes the intended meaning clear. Situational irony occurs when circumstances produce the opposite of expected outcomes. Dramatic irony is when the audience knows something characters do not.
What does Sarcasm mean?
The use of irony to mock or convey contempt; a sharp, bitter, or cutting expression or remark made with intent to hurt.