Ace the 2026 English Lit & Comp Section 1 – Master Your Comeback with This Engaging Practice Test!

To determine which term is meant to be taken ironically, it’s important to consider the context and usage of each phrase. Irony often involves stating something in a way that implies a meaning that is opposite to or diverges from the literal interpretation.

If the answer indicates that neither of the terms is meant to be taken ironically, then it implies that both terms have a straightforward, sincere meaning without underlying contradictions, or they do not carry the typical connotation associated with irony.

In contrast, if any term had an inherent quality of irony – for example, if it stated something while suggesting the opposite through context or tone – then that specific term would have qualified as being ironical. Therefore, the rationale for selecting this answer could be that both I and II are completely earnest and direct in their meanings, thus not invoking any irony.

In summary, indicating that neither term is meant to be taken ironically suggests a clear and direct interpretation of the phrases, devoid of any contradictory or sarcastic undertones often characteristic of irony. This provides a clearer understanding of the intended message of each term.