Spanish word

irónico

Pronunciation

IPA/iˈɾoniko/

Meaning

  • adjectiveironic

Example

Tu comentario fue irónico.

Your comment was ironic.

Illustration for irónico (ironic)

More examples

Su comentario sonó irónico en la reunión.

His comment sounded ironic at the meeting.

Core concept

A contrast between what is said and the actual situation.

Common phrases

  • comentario irónico

    ironic comment

  • tono irónico

    ironic tone

  • gesto irónico

    ironic gesture

Similar words

sarcástico: Makes scathing, hostile comments aimed at criticizing or belittling a person.
burlón: Mocks someone in a playful, teasing way that invites laughter rather than deep harm.
cínico: Adopts a cynical, unsentimental stance that dismisses moral or emotional value.
mordaz: Issues sharp, caustic remarks designed to sting and provoke discomfort.

Definition in Spanish

Que señala una incongruencia entre lo dicho y la realidad, a menudo para burlarse o criticar de manera indirecta.

Word origin

From Greek eirōneía 'dissimulation' through Latin ironicus, the word developed to describe a contrast between speech and the real situation.

Usage tips

  • After Es irónico que..., expect a clause that contrasts the stated idea with real facts, so use it to comment on situations rather than to deliver direct insults.

Other meanings

  • sarcasticadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • ironíaironynoun
  • ironizarironizeverb
  • irónicamenteironicallyadverb

Word lists with this word