When a person says the opposite of what he or she really means, that is called...

What is it called when a person says the opposite of what he or she really means?

Verbal irony.

Verbal Irony

Verbal irony occurs when a person says something but means the opposite. This can be used for various purposes such as humor, sarcasm, or to create a particular effect in communication. It is a form of irony where the intended meaning is different from the literal meaning of the words spoken. Characteristics of Verbal Irony: Verbal irony often involves a contrast between what is said and what is actually meant. It can be subtle or obvious, depending on the context and the tone of voice used by the speaker. This type of irony is commonly used in everyday conversations, literature, and media to convey messages in an indirect or unexpected way. Examples of Verbal Irony: 1. Saying "What a beautiful day!" during a thunderstorm. 2. Responding "I love doing chores!" when asked about household tasks. 3. Commenting "Great job!" on a performance that was clearly subpar. Verbal irony adds depth and complexity to communication by allowing speakers to express their true feelings or thoughts in a nuanced manner. It can also be a powerful tool for creating tension or amusement in conversations and storytelling. In conclusion, verbal irony is a form of communication where the speaker's words convey a different meaning than what is actually intended. It is a common literary device used to add layers of meaning and complexity to dialogue and narrative. So, the next time you come across someone saying one thing but meaning another, you'll know that it's a classic example of verbal irony.
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