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Sarcastically: meaning, definitions and examples

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sarcastically

 

[sɑːˈkæstɪkli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in conversation

in a sarcastic manner; expressing or marked by sarcasm

Synonyms

ironically, mockingly, sardonically.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sarcastically

Used when someone is saying something they don't mean in order to mock or criticize someone else. Often has a biting, rude tone.

  • "Oh, great! Another meeting!" she said sarcastically.
  • When he missed the last bus, he muttered sarcastically, "Well, that’s just perfect."
ironically

Used to describe a situation where the actual outcome is different from what was expected, often in a surprising or amusing way. It can also be used in speech when someone says the opposite of what they mean.

  • Ironically, the fire station burned down last night.
  • He said with a smile, "Oh, I just love getting stuck in traffic," ironically.
mockingly

Used when someone is imitating or making fun of another person in a way that is meant to be mean or insulting.

  • She mimicked his voice mockingly, "Oh, look at me, I’m so important."
  • He looked at her and laughed mockingly, "Sure, you’re a real genius."
sardonically

Used when someone is displaying a deep, cynical, and bitter form of sarcasm. It often indicates a more sophisticated or dark form of mockery.

  • "Well, that was just brilliant," he said sardonically after their plan failed.
  • She raised an eyebrow and sardonically said, "Yes, because that worked out so well last time."

Examples of usage

  • He sarcastically thanked her for all her help.
  • She sarcastically remarked, 'Oh, great, another meeting.'
Context #2 | Adverb

informal

used to express sarcasm or irony

Synonyms

facetiously, satirically.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sarcastically

This word is a duplicate of 'sarcastically' above and is used in the same context.

  • Use the same examples as 'sarcastically' above.
facetiously

This word fits when you want to describe a comment made in a humorous or playful manner, often inappropriately so. It implies joking or being flippant about serious matters.

  • He facetiously remarked that they should just skip the meeting altogether.
  • She often speaks facetiously about her diet, saying she’s on the 'cake and cookies' plan.
satirically

This term should be used when describing a comment, work, or speech that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or highlight the flaws in people, society, or politics.

  • The cartoon was drawn satirically to highlight the absurdity of the political debate.
  • He writes satirically about modern consumer culture in his blog.

Examples of usage

  • Oh, sarcastically, that's just what I needed today.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'sarkasmos,' meaning 'to tear flesh,' which reflects how the sharpness of sarcasm can hurt feelings.
  • It entered the English language in the late 16th century, indicating a long history of this form of expression.
  • Originally, sarcasm was related more to mockery than humor, showing its evolution in usage over time.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that understanding sarcasm demonstrates advanced cognitive abilities, requiring both language comprehension and social insight.
  • Sarcastic communication can enhance bonding among friends, as it often involves playfulness and shared understanding.
  • Some people may struggle with recognizing sarcasm, particularly those with autism spectrum disorders, highlighting the complexities of social interactions.

Pop Culture

  • Popular sitcoms like 'The Office' and 'Parks and Recreation' use sarcasm to create humor, making it a staple in comedic writing.
  • The character of Chandler Bing from 'Friends' is known for his sarcastic remarks, contributing significantly to the show's charm.
  • In memes and online culture, phrases delivered sarcastically often go viral, showcasing its widespread recognition and use in modern communication.

Literature

  • Classic authors like Oscar Wilde and Mark Twain effectively employed sarcasm to critique society and highlight human folly.
  • Satirical works, which rely heavily on sarcasm, have a long-standing tradition, offering social commentary through humor.
  • In contemporary literature, sarcasm serves as a tool to portray relatable characters amidst the absurdities of life.

Communication

  • Sarcasm often relies on tone and context, making it challenging in written communication, where visual cues are absent.
  • It can be a double-edged sword: while it fosters humor among friends, it can lead to misunderstandings with those who take words literally.
  • Effective use of sarcasm varies by cultural context, indicating differences in humor appreciation around the world.

Translations

Translations of the word "sarcastically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sarcàsticamente

🇮🇳 व्यंग्यात्मक रूप से

🇩🇪 sarkastisch

🇮🇩 dengan sinis

🇺🇦 саркастично

🇵🇱 sarkastycznie

🇯🇵 皮肉を込めて (hiniku o komete)

🇫🇷 sarcastiquement

🇪🇸 sarcásticamente

🇹🇷 alaycı bir şekilde

🇰🇷 비꼬아서 (bikkoseo)

🇸🇦 بسخرية (bisukhriya)

🇨🇿 sarkasticky

🇸🇰 sarkasticky

🇨🇳 讽刺地 (fěngcì de)

🇸🇮 sarkastično

🇮🇸 háðslega

🇰🇿 саркастически

🇬🇪 სარკასტულად (sarkastulad)

🇦🇿 sarkastik olaraq

🇲🇽 sarcásticamente

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,424, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.