dramatic irony
Say it: druh-MAT-ik EYE-ruh-nee /drəˌmætɪk ˈaɪrəni/ · noun phrase
What “dramatic irony” means
The audience knows an important truth that a character doesn't.
More precisely: When the audience knows something important that the characters do not.
Example: “The dramatic irony is unbearable: we know the call is from her ex.”
When to use it
When discussing tension or humour created because readers or viewers understand a situation better than the characters do.
Similar words
tragic irony, audience knowledge
Quick check
We see a guest hide the stolen ring, but the detective warmly asks them for help. What creates the tension?
dramatic irony or a plot twist?
Show the answer
dramatic irony
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