Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
* Contrary: It suggests a situation where the outcome or event is the opposite of what was anticipated.
* Expected or Intended: It implies that there was a specific outcome or intention, but the reality is different.
Here are some examples:
* "Ironically, the fire station burned down." This is ironic because fire stations are meant to prevent fires, not be destroyed by them.
* "She was trying to be funny, but ironically, her joke fell flat." The speaker intended to be humorous, but the opposite happened.
* "He was so focused on winning the game that he ironically lost his focus on the basics." His intense focus on winning led him to neglect the fundamentals, ultimately causing him to lose.
Note: Irony is often used in a humorous or sarcastic way, but it can also be used in a more serious context.