Q

QuestionEnglish

Verbal irony is a figure of speech where someone says something that is opposite to what they actually mean, typically with a sarcastic or humorous intent. The key is that the speaker's words are intentionally contrary to the literal meaning.

A. "Her step is as light as a feather." - This is a simile (a comparison using "like" or "as") - It's a straightforward descriptive statement - Does NOT contain irony B. ""You are beautiful like a summer day,"" she told the winner of the baby beauty pageant. - This is a sincere compliment - No underlying sarcasm or contradiction - Not an example of verbal irony C. "Talking to him is about as interesting as reading a dictionary." - This statement is sarcastic - The speaker is implying that talking to this person is extremely boring - The words are deliberately chosen to mock the person's conversational skills - This IS an example of verbal irony D. "Her voice is as sweet as honey." - This is another straightforward simile - It's a literal comparison - No ironic intent

The correct answer is C. The statement uses verbal irony by sarcastically comparing a conversation to the dull experience of reading a dictionary.