French word

ironique

Pronunciation

IPA/iʁonik/

Meaning

  • adjectiveironic

Example

Tu es ironique ?

Are you being ironic?

Illustration for ironique (ironic)

More examples

Son commentaire était clairement ironique.

His comment was clearly ironic.

Core concept

Words that point one way on the surface while quietly suggesting another, creating a teasing, nuanced, or critical effect.

Common phrases

  • sourire ironique

    ironic smile

  • commentaire ironique

    ironic comment

  • ton ironique

    ironic tone

Similar words

sarcastique: Using sharp, cold sarcasm to criticize or reproach someone.
taquin: Lightly teasing in a friendly way meant to amuse.
moqueur: Mocking someone in a belittling or scornful way.
cynique: Expressing cynical distrust of kindness, morality, or good intentions.

Definition in French

Qui emploie une remarque contraire à l'expression littérale pour taquiner, nuancer ou critiquer de façon détournée, sans toujours vouloir blesser.

Word origin

The adjective ironique derives from French ironie, borrowed through Latin ironia from Greek eirōneia, a term for presenting a hidden intention indirectly.

Usage tips

  • In French, ironique agrees in gender and number, giving ironique in the singular for both genders but ironiques in the plural.

Other meanings

  • sarcasticadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word