Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

poetic justice

Phrase

/ˈpoʊ.ɛ.tɪk ˈdʒʌs.tɪs/

Definition

A situation in which virtue is ultimately rewarded or vice punished, often in a manner that is particularly fitting or ironic.

Examples

In the end, the corrupt businessman faced poetic justice when his deceitful schemes collapsed.
It was poetic justice that the athlete who had once taunted his opponents was defeated in the final match.

Meaning

Poetic justice refers to a scenario where characters in a story receive outcomes that are fittingly appropriate, often reflecting their moral standing. It highlights a sense of moral order or justice being served in a delightful or ironic way.