What literary device is characterized by a deliberate contrast used for humor?

The correct answer is irony, which is a literary device that involves a contrast between expectation and reality, often creating a humorous or impactful effect. In the case of irony, the humor arises when there’s a discrepancy between what is said or expected and what actually occurs. For example, saying "What a beautiful day" during a storm would illustrate situational irony, where the reality contradicts the expression.

Other options don't fit this specific characteristic of using contrast for humor. Antithesis involves the juxtaposition of opposing ideas, but it is not primarily focused on humor. Paradox presents a seemingly contradictory statement that might reveal a deeper truth, but again, it doesn’t aim for humor in the same way irony does. An aphorism is a concise statement that conveys a general truth or principle, often without the deliberate contrast that defines irony.