This question is based on General Literary Principles. Satire employs the use of

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which literary device satire relies on to achieve its effect.

Step 2: Explain the concept Satire is a literary form that exposes, ridicules, or criticizes human foolishness, vice, or social and political abuses, often with the aim of provoking reform. To do this, satirists use techniques such as irony, sarcasm, exaggeration (hyperbole), parody, and ridicule. Of these, irony is the central tool: saying one thing while meaning another, so the reader sees the gap between appearance and reality.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Onomatopoeia: words that imitate sounds (e.g., buzz, bang). This is a sound device and has nothing to do with satire.
• B. Irony: a contrast between what is said and what is meant, or between expectation and reality. It is the main tool of satire. ✔
• C. Synecdoche: a figure of speech where a part represents the whole (e.g., "all hands on deck"). It is not specific to satire.
• D. Melancholy: a mood of sadness. Satire is typically mocking or witty, not sorrowful.

Step 4: Answer Satire employs irony, so the correct option is B.

Exam tip: Remember the link "Satire = Irony + Ridicule". In Nigerian literature, think of Wole Soyinka's The Lion and the Jewel (mocking Baroka and Lakunle's pretensions) or Chinua Achebe's A Man of the People, which satirize corruption and vanity. Whenever you see "satire" in a question, look for irony, sarcasm, or ridicule among the options.