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sarcasm

English → EnglishcasualInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "sarcasm": Sarcasm is a form of verbal irony where you say the opposite of what you actually mean, usually to m

What does "sarcasm" mean?

Sarcasm is a form of verbal irony where you say the opposite of what you actually mean, usually to mock, tease, or convey frustration. Think of it as a "sharp" remark—the word itself comes from the Greek word meaning "to tear flesh," which perfectly captures the biting or stinging sensation it can leave behind. It is common in casual, friendly banter, but it can easily be misinterpreted as rude if the listener doesn't catch your tone. Because it relies heavily on inflection and context, it is often signaled by a flat, deadpan delivery or an exaggerated, overly enthusiastic tone.

"sarcasm" in conversation

After a long day of rain

Oh great, another thunderstorm. Just what I wanted for my picnic.

Oh great, another thunderstorm. Just what I wanted for my picnic.

I can sense the joy radiating off you right now.

I can sense the joy radiating off you right now.

The speakers are using sarcasm to express annoyance at the bad weather.

At the office

We have another three-hour meeting scheduled for Friday at 4 PM.

We have another three-hour meeting scheduled for Friday at 4 PM.

Wow, my favorite way to start the weekend.

Wow, my favorite way to start the weekend.

The employee uses sarcasm to highlight their frustration with the inconvenient timing.

"sarcasm" in a sentence

  1. Nice job breaking the printer.

    Nice job breaking the printer.

  2. He replied with heavy sarcasm, 'Oh, because that's definitely going to solve all our problems.'

    He replied with heavy sarcasm, 'Oh, because that's definitely going to solve all our problems.'

  3. While her words were polite, her tone was dripping with such biting sarcasm that no one could mistake her true feelings.

    While her words were polite, her tone was dripping with such biting sarcasm that no one could mistake her true feelings.

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