Which term describes an incongruity between what might be expected and what actually occurs?

The term that best describes an incongruity between what might be expected and what actually occurs is irony. Irony involves a situation where there is a significant difference between the anticipated outcome and the actual outcome, often highlighting a contrast that can be humorous, poignant, or thought-provoking. This concept is prevalent in literature, everyday life, and various forms of expression, where the reality of a situation contradicts our preconceived notions.

For instance, if a fire station burns down, the unexpected nature of that event illustrates irony. The expectation is that a fire station, which is equipped to handle fires, would be the last place to catch on fire. This type of incongruity is central to the definition of irony, making it the correct answer here.

In contrast, sarcasm refers to a form of verbal irony where someone says the opposite of what they mean, often in a mocking or contemptuous manner, but it doesn't directly highlight the incongruity of situations. Hyperbole is exaggerated speech that isn't intended to be taken literally, and a metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unlike things. Neither hyperbole nor metaphor addresses the specific concept of a mismatch between expectation and reality, further distinguishing why irony is the most fitting term