What characterizes situational irony?

Situational irony is defined by an outcome that is contrary to what was expected. This occurs when there is a significant difference between what is anticipated to happen and what actually happens in a specific situation. It often creates a surprising twist or reversal, prompting the audience to reflect on the nature of the events or the circumstances leading to the outcome.

For instance, if a fire station burns down, the expectation would be that a place equipped to handle fires would be safe from them, making the actual event of it burning down ironic. This unexpected turn of events highlights the unpredictability of life and sometimes adds humor, poignancy, or a critical message about human behavior or circumstance.

While the other options touch on aspects of irony or communication, they do not directly capture the essence of situational irony as well as the recognition of an unexpected outcome does.