Irony.
Probably the most misused word in the English language...or are you just using it ironically?
Redoubt had a nice little post about the irony of lottery in which he quotes some lyrics from the Alanis Morrisette song "Ironic", which isn't just that.
"Ironic...don't cha think?"
Let's ignore the word, shall we?
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i·ro·ny
n.
pl. i·ro·nies
1.
a. The use of words to express something different from and often opposite to their literal meaning.
b. An expression or utterance marked by a deliberate contrast between apparent and intended meaning.
c. A literary style employing such contrasts for humorous or rhetorical effect. See Synonyms at wit
2.
a. Incongruity between what might be expected and what actually occurs: “Hyde noted the irony of Ireland's copying the nation she most hated” (Richard Kain).
b. An occurrence, result, or circumstance notable for such incongruity. See Usage Note at ironic.
Dramatic irony - irony that occurs when the meaning of the situation is understood by the audience but not by the characters in the play.
(Author's note: every Law and Order)
Socratic irony - admission of your own ignorance and willingness to learn while exposing someone's inconsistencies by close questioning.
(Author's note: Letting another fool take the fall for you to learn)
This misuse has been a peeve of mine for awhile now. Hell, I'm not perfect. I sometimes misuse the word, too.
It's easy to do so...it's thrown about so much that it's been given different meaning.
As KO would say, "It isn't ironic...just a shitty coincidence".
I will admit that I do use the word as a barometer of one's English skills.
Sure, if someone uses it wrong around me, I'll probably shrug it off. Of course, if I do call you on it, it means I think you're capable of a little more than that....so it's a good thing to be ridiculed publicly.
So, what is the purpose of this post?
Nothing, really....or everything.
If you wish to discuss this further, don't comment me at the link below.
