Which of the following literary devices is used in the highlighted sentence?

Symbolism refers to using symbols to represent ideas or qualities. While it can add depth to literary works, the highlighted sentence does not primarily rely on symbols to convey meaning. Instead, it presents a situation where the true meaning is opposite to what appears, which aligns more with irony than symbolism.

An oxymoron combines contradictory terms to create a new meaning, such as "bittersweet." Although this device can create interesting effects in literature, the highlighted sentence does not utilize this technique. The essence of the sentence is based on the unexpected outcome rather than a juxtaposition of contradictory terms.

An allusion is a reference to another work, person, or event that adds context or depth. While allusions enrich literary texts, the highlighted sentence does not reference outside material but instead focuses on the contradiction between expectation and reality, which is characteristic of irony.