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Sarcastic: meaning, definitions and examples

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sarcastic

 

[sɑːrˈkæstɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

tone of speech

marked by or given to using irony in order to mock or convey contempt

Synonyms

contemptuous, ironic, mocking.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sarcastic

Used when making remarks that mean the opposite of what they say, usually to insult or show irritation.

  • Oh, great! Another meeting! Just what I needed.
  • Yeah, because that’s just what the world needs right now—more traffic.
ironic

Used when words are used to convey a meaning that is opposite of its literal meaning, often in a humorous or pointed way.

  • It's ironic that the fire station burned down.
  • Isn't it ironic that the teacher failed the exam?
mocking

Used to imitate or make fun of someone or something, often in a teasing or cruel manner.

  • He made a mocking gesture mimicking the way she walked.
  • Her mocking laugh made him feel even more embarrassed.
contemptuous

Used to describe a disdainful, scornful attitude, often implying superiority.

  • She gave a contemptuous look at the messy room.
  • His contemptuous remarks about the team never helping are getting tiring.

Examples of usage

  • She gave him a sarcastic smile.
  • He made a sarcastic comment about her outfit.
Context #2 | Adjective

attitude

characterized by or showing sarcasm; mocking; satirical

Synonyms

ironic, mocking, satirical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sarcastic

Use this word when you want to express sharp, often hurtful remarks that mean the opposite of what they say, typically to criticize or mock someone. It often has a negative connotation.

  • Oh great, another traffic jam. Just what I needed!
satirical

Best used when describing the use of humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues.

  • The TV show is known for its satirical take on current events.
mocking

Use this word when imitating someone or something in a way that makes fun of them, usually in a mean or contemptuous way. It typically has a negative connotation.

  • He was mocking his friend's accent after they returned from the trip.
ironic

This word fits when describing a situation or statement where there is a contrast between what is expected and what actually happens. It doesn't always carry a negative connotation.

  • It's ironic that the fire station burned down.

Examples of usage

  • He has a sarcastic sense of humor.
  • The article was written in a sarcastic tone.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 'Sarcastic' comes from the Greek word 'sarcastikos', which means 'to tear flesh' – as if words can hurt!
  • The term started being used in English around the 17th century, originally describing a sharp, bitter kind of humor.

Psychology

  • Sarcasm can show intelligence; it's often used by people who think quickly and creatively.
  • Some studies suggest that using sarcasm can build social bonds, as long as everyone understands the joke!

Pop Culture

  • Many characters in movies and TV shows use sarcasm for comic relief, like Chandler Bing from 'Friends'.
  • Social media platforms are filled with sarcastic comments, often leading to hilarious memes and gifs.

Literature

  • In classic literature, authors like Jane Austen used sarcasm as a tool to critique society and human behavior.
  • Mark Twain was famous for his sarcastic storytelling, revealing the absurdities of life through humor.

Communication

  • Sarcasm can sometimes be misinterpreted, especially in written communication where tone is absent.
  • It’s often delivered with a specific tone of voice or facial expression, helping others recognize the humor.

Translations

Translations of the word "sarcastic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sarcástico

🇮🇳 व्यंग्यात्मक

🇩🇪 sarkastisch

🇮🇩 sarkastik

🇺🇦 саркастичний

🇵🇱 sarkastyczny

🇯🇵 皮肉な (hinikuna)

🇫🇷 sarcastique

🇪🇸 sarcástico

🇹🇷 alaycı

🇰🇷 비꼬는 (bikkoneun)

🇸🇦 ساخر (sakhir)

🇨🇿 sarkastický

🇸🇰 sarkastický

🇨🇳 讽刺的 (fèngcì de)

🇸🇮 sarkastičen

🇮🇸 kaldhæðinn

🇰🇿 сарқылдап тұрған

🇬🇪 სარკასტული (sarkastuli)

🇦🇿 sarkastik

🇲🇽 sarcástico

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,755, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.