What is defined as a contrast between expectation and reality?

Irony is defined as a contrast between expectation and reality, making it a key literary device that highlights the difference between what one anticipates and what actually occurs. It can take various forms, such as verbal irony, where someone says the opposite of what they mean, or situational irony, where actions lead to outcomes that are starkly different from what was intended or expected. This device often adds layers of meaning and depth to a narrative, inviting readers to engage more critically with the text as they uncover these contrasts.

In contrast, juxtaposition refers to placing two elements side by side to highlight their differences or to compare them, but it does not inherently involve expectation versus reality. An oxymoron combines contradictory terms to create a paradoxical effect, such as “bittersweet,” but it does not address the theme of expectation. Meanwhile, a paradox presents a statement that contradicts itself but often reveals a deeper truth, yet it is not primarily focused on the expectation-reality dynamic that defines irony.