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    English Literature GCSE

    Irony

    What Irony means in English Literature GCSE, as defined for Eduqas, OCR, Pearson Edexcel.

    Definitions of Irony

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    A literary technique where the full significance of a character's words or actions is clear to the reader or audience but unknown to the character. The opening line of the novel is a famous example of verbal irony.
    OCR · Pride and Prejudice (study guide)
    The expression of one's meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite, typically for humorous or emphatic effect.
    Eduqas · Cozy Apologia (study guide), Pride and Prejudice (study guide)
    Using language that normally signifies the opposite, typically for humorous or emphatic effect.
    Eduqas · Dulce et Decorum Est (study guide)
    The expression of one's meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite.
    Eduqas · In the Park (study guide)
    A literary device where the intended meaning is the opposite of the literal meaning.
    Pearson Edexcel · Pride and Prejudice (study guide)

    Topics that use Irony

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    Using Irony in the exam

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