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Caustically: meaning, definitions and examples

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caustically

 

[ ˈkɔːstɪkli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

manner of speaking

Caustically means in a way that is sarcastic or cutting; it often implies a harsh or biting manner of expression. When something is said caustically, it can be both humorous and scathing, often pointing out faults or flaws sharply.

Synonyms

acerbically, bitterly, sarcastically, scathingly

Examples of usage

  • She caustically remarked about his lack of punctuality.
  • His caustically witty comments made the conversation uncomfortable.
  • The critic wrote caustically about the film's many errors.
  • He laughed caustically when he heard the absurd suggestion.
  • She responded caustically to the unfair accusation.

Translations

Translations of the word "caustically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 causticamente

🇮🇳 कटाक्ष से

🇩🇪 beißend

🇮🇩 secara sinis

🇺🇦 каустично

🇵🇱 kaustycznie

🇯🇵 皮肉に

🇫🇷 caustiquement

🇪🇸 caústicamente

🇹🇷 alaycı bir şekilde

🇰🇷 신랄하게

🇸🇦 بشكل لاذع

🇨🇿 kyselým způsobem

🇸🇰 kausticky

🇨🇳 讽刺地

🇸🇮 kaustično

🇮🇸 sarkastísk

🇰🇿 қатал түрде

🇬🇪 მკაცრად

🇦🇿 qıcıqla

🇲🇽 caústicamente

Etymology

The word 'caustic' comes from the Greek word 'kaustikos', which means 'able to burn', derived from 'kaustos', meaning 'burnt'. It was originally used in chemistry to describe substances that can burn tissues or materials. Over time, the term evolved to describe sharp or biting wit in language, reflecting its burning nature. The adverb form 'caustically' emerged from this transition, describing not just physical properties but also the figurative burning effect of one's words. The usage of 'caustic' in literature to refer to harsh critique can be traced back to the 19th century, where it began to encompass a broader range of biting commentary that goes beyond mere physical properties.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,888 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.