View synonyms for ironically

ironically

[ ahy-ron-ik-lee ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adverb

in a way that uses words to mean the opposite of what they normally mean, or makes an obvious exaggeration or understatement, as a joke or in order to make a point:
French author Voltaire ironically commented on war, “It is forbidden to kill; therefore all murderers are punished unless they kill in large numbers and to the sound of trumpets.”
in a way that is the opposite of what would be expected, often as a remarkable coincidence:
Ironically, one of the main messages of this text on warfare is how to avoid battle through meticulous preparation and planning.

First recorded in 1530–40; ironical ( def ) + -ly

Ironically, the play deals with the ‘management’ of information by the Establishment.

Ironically, this is the one precept on which liberals and conservatives agree.

Ironically, unlike Dukakis and apparently Paul, Bill Clinton and Al Gore had each “read the memo” back in the day.

Ironically, as pope, his championing of the poor has given Liberation Theology a new lease on life.

Ironically, there are parts of it that I think the North Koreans will love, but other parts they are going to really hate.

"You may put strategy out of the definition, leaving in the woman," she continued ironically.

He could even hear the professor's voice as he ironically pronounced upon sordid little despots of Bassett's stamp.

A parchment in Hindustani, given jestingly or ironically by a humorous old chap in orders and white linen and rhinoceros sandals.

“Now you are doomed indeed,” Hildebrand commented, ironically.

"Good night," Wade said ironically, with a last look at Moran.

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