In a way that expresses irony, especially when there's a contrast between expectation and reality. Often used to highlight unexpected or contradictory situations.
From Greek 'eironeia' (feigned ignorance) + '-ic' + '-ally' suffixes. Originally referred to Socratic irony—pretending ignorance to expose others' lack of knowledge—before expanding to general contradictions.
Ironically has become one of the most misused words in English—people often use it to mean 'coincidentally' when true irony requires a deliberate contrast between appearance and reality, not just an unexpected occurrence!
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