ironic

Strange or funny because what happens is the opposite of what you would expect.

• The result was rather ironic.
• It’s ironic that a swimming coach hates water.
• In an ironic twist, the thief’s own car was stolen.

How to use it: it is ironic that… (It is ironic that the safety officer forgot his helmet.)

Common phrases: ironic twist, ironic outcome, ironic situation

Using words that suggest a different or opposite meaning, or showing a surprising difference between expectation and reality.

• She gave an ironic smile.
• His ironic praise really meant criticism.
• The story ends with an ironic contrast between their hopes and reality.

Common phrases: ironic remark, ironic smile, ironic tone

Strange or surprising because two things happen together by chance.

• What an ironic coincidence!
• It’s ironic that our dogs share a birthday.
• We thought it ironic to meet our neighbour so far from home.

How to use it: it is ironic that… (It’s ironic that we both booked the same hotel.)

Similar words: coincidental, odd, strange

Common phrases: ironic coincidence, ironic timing, rather ironic