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

Example 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 Others chose to call the company out publicly with a sprinkle of sarcasm. —

Saleen Martin, USA TODAY, 17 Jan. 2025 Here’s a more helpful approach—’ and then speak honestly, without sarcasm. —

Anne Sugar, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025 The 57-year-old coach, in the midst of his 26th season behind an NHL bench and second with the Panthers, knows when to lighten the mood with either quick-wit sarcasm or deadpanned replies. —

Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 7 Jan. 2025 Putin didn't deny that North Korea was sending soldiers to Russia, initially resorting to sarcasm when NBC News asked about it. —

Keir Simmons, NBC News, 24 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sarcasm