Romantic irony is a literary technique where the author or narrator presents events in a way that is different from what the characters understand, creating a sense of irony for the reader. It often involves contrasting romantic ideals with the reality of a situation, highlighting the discrepancy between expectation and outcome. This technique is commonly found in works of Romantic literature.

In "Sophie's World" by Jostein Gaarder, romantic irony is present in the character of Sophie's mother, who is revealed to be a part of the book's narrative. This revelation adds a layer of complexity and irony to the story as it blurs the lines between reality and fiction, inviting readers to question the nature of the narrative and their own role as readers.

Steven E. Alford has written:

'Irony and the logic of the romantic imagination' -- subject(s): Aesthetics, Irony in literature, Romanticism

Verbal irony has to do with words, but situational irony has to do with

Situational irony is when you can control your irony in what you have in something.