反讽 (fǎn fěng) is a noun meaning 'irony'—specifically, the rhetorical device where the intended meaning is opposite to the literal or surface meaning, often used to convey criticism, humor, or subtle disapproval. The character 反 means 'opposite' or 'against', and 讽 means 'to ridicule' or 'to satirize'; together, they literally suggest 'opposite ridicule'—a form of expression that says one thing while meaning another, usually to expose hypocrisy, absurdity, or contradiction.

This term is common in literary analysis, media criticism, and everyday commentary. It’s more formal and analytical than colloquial terms like 讽刺 (fěngcì), often appearing in academic writing, film reviews, or political satire. Unlike simple sarcasm, 反讽 typically involves structural or situational incongruity—not just tone—and may require cultural or contextual awareness to fully grasp.