Which term describes expressing one idea by using language that indicates its opposite?

Which term describes expressing one idea by using language that indicates its opposite?

• A. Pun
• B. Simile
• C. Metaphor
• D. Irony

Answer: (D)

Irony is expressing one idea by using language that signals the opposite. In verbal irony, the speaker says something, but means the opposite, and understanding comes from context or tone. For example, saying “Great weather we’re having” during a storm communicates the opposite of the literal words. The other terms don’t fit because a pun relies on wordplay or multiple meanings, a simile makes a comparison using like or as, and a metaphor makes a direct, implicit comparison without signaling opposite meaning.

Irony is expressing one idea by using language that signals the opposite. In verbal irony, the speaker says something, but means the opposite, and understanding comes from context or tone. For example, saying “Great weather we’re having” during a storm communicates the opposite of the literal words. The other terms don’t fit because a pun relies on wordplay or multiple meanings, a simile makes a comparison using like or as, and a metaphor makes a direct, implicit comparison without signaling opposite meaning.