SARCASM Synonyms: 53 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'sarcasm' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of sarcasm are humor , irony , repartee , satire , and wit . While all these words mean "a mode of expression intended to arouse amusement," sarcasm applies to expression frequently in the form of irony that is intended to cut or wound. // given to heartless sarcasm

Q: When might 'humor' be a better fit than 'sarcasm'?

The words humor and sarcasm are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, humor implies an ability to perceive the ludicrous, the comical, and the absurd in human life and to express these usually without bitterness. // a sense of humor

Q: When can 'irony' be used instead of 'sarcasm'?

While in some cases nearly identical to sarcasm , irony applies to a manner of expression in which the intended meaning is the opposite of what is seemingly expressed. // the irony of the title

Q: In what contexts can 'repartee' take the place of 'sarcasm'?

While the synonyms repartee and sarcasm are close in meaning, repartee implies the power of answering quickly, pointedly, or wittily. // a dinner guest noted for repartee

Q: When is 'satire' a more appropriate choice than 'sarcasm'?

In some situations, the words satire and sarcasm are roughly equivalent. However, satire applies to writing that exposes or ridicules conduct, doctrines, or institutions either by direct criticism or more often through irony, parody, or caricature. // a satire on the Congress

Q: When would 'wit' be a good substitute for 'sarcasm'?

The meanings of wit and sarcasm largely overlap; however, wit suggests the power to evoke laughter by remarks showing verbal felicity or ingenuity and swift perception especially of the incongruous. // a playful wit

sarcasm

noun

ˈsär-ˌka-zəm

Definition of sarcasm next

as in insult

an act or expression showing scorn and usually intended to hurt another's feelings I know you're not happy, but there's no need to resort to petty sarcasms to make your point

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How does the noun sarcasm differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of sarcasm are humor, irony, repartee, satire, and wit. While all these words mean "a mode of expression intended to arouse amusement," sarcasm applies to expression frequently in the form of irony that is intended to cut or wound.

given to heartless sarcasm

When might humor be a better fit than sarcasm?

The words humor and sarcasm are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, humor implies an ability to perceive the ludicrous, the comical, and the absurd in human life and to express these usually without bitterness.

a sense of humor

When can irony be used instead of sarcasm?

While in some cases nearly identical to sarcasm, irony applies to a manner of expression in which the intended meaning is the opposite of what is seemingly expressed.

the irony of the title

In what contexts can repartee take the place of sarcasm?

While the synonyms repartee and sarcasm are close in meaning, repartee implies the power of answering quickly, pointedly, or wittily.

a dinner guest noted for repartee

When is satire a more appropriate choice than sarcasm?

In some situations, the words satire and sarcasm are roughly equivalent. However, satire applies to writing that exposes or ridicules conduct, doctrines, or institutions either by direct criticism or more often through irony, parody, or caricature.

a satire on the Congress

When would wit be a good substitute for sarcasm?

The meanings of wit and sarcasm largely overlap; however, wit suggests the power to evoke laughter by remarks showing verbal felicity or ingenuity and swift perception especially of the incongruous.

a playful wit

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of sarcasm As the reality of their relationship emerges, so does the Carrey sarcasm. —

Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 18 Dec. 2024 Baldoni’s lawsuit alleges that the text message and Times reporting on said interaction is missing context, and that the back and forth was actually sarcasm. —

Alex Abad-Santos, Vox, 2 Jan. 2025 The Times also clipped Abel’s use of the upside-down smiley face emoji, which is typically used to convey sarcasm. —

Tatiana Siegel, Variety, 31 Dec. 2024 That said, as the GFL’s account pointed out, Silva’s popularity is apparent, as is the sarcasm from MMA fans. —

Brian Mazique, Forbes, 28 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sarcasm