caustic remark

USAGE SUMMARY

"caustic remark" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a remark that is sharply critical or sarcastic, usually in a cruel and mocking way. Example: After the student failed her exam, her teacher made a caustic remark about her lack of effort.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

His caustic remark that "a humanitarian is always a hypocrite" sounds a note too sour.

The New York Times - Books

Albanese made a caustic remark during a procedural debate about people demonstrating their true character not when they were successful, but when they were unsuccessful.

The Guardian

But with the exception of a caustic remark on "Meet the Press" by the Democratic Senator Bob Kerrey of Nebraska about Mr. Bush's having made an issue of trustworthiness, and an accusation on CNN by the Republican Senator Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania that he was pretty sure the story could be traced to the Gore campaign, the subject failed to ignite.

The New York Times

Perhaps the most caustic remark about Stockhausen was attributed to Sir Thomas Beecham.

Wikipedia

Especially toward the end of his tenure, Gates would let fly with an occasional caustic remark.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Resist the temptation to make caustic remarks about Irish profligacy or Greek recklessness.

The Guardian - Business

But, he said, it was only his most caustic remarks that were broadcast and reprinted.

The New York Times

The attack on the Americans has caused United States officials to respond with equally caustic remarks.

The New York Times - Sports

What does she do in the face of caustic remarks towards others?

The Guardian - Film

Listen to Rachel Maddow or Keith Olbermann, and you'll hear a lot of caustic remarks and mockery aimed at Republicans.

The New York Times

He loathed sentiment, was a lifelong conservative and made frankly caustic remarks about the crowds he painted.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "caustic remark" when you want to emphasize the biting and corrosive quality of a comment. It's more impactful than simply saying 'critical comment'.

Common error

While "caustic remark" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid overusing it in formal or academic writing, as it can come across as overly dramatic or biased. Opt for more neutral terms like 'critical assessment' or 'pointed observation'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "caustic remark" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'caustic' modifies the noun 'remark'. It serves to describe the quality of the remark, emphasizing its biting and corrosive nature. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and conveys a specific type of critical commentary.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "caustic remark" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a comment characterized by its biting, sarcastic, and often unkind nature. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While relatively infrequent in overall usage, it's primarily found in news and media contexts. When choosing this phrase, consider the level of formality required and whether a more neutral alternative might be more appropriate. Remember that a "caustic remark" carries a strong connotation of bitterness and intent to wound, differentiating it from simpler critical feedback.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bitter comment

This alternative suggests a remark filled with resentment and negativity.

scathing observation

This phrase implies a harsh and critical assessment.

acerbic statement

This suggests a witty but sharp and potentially hurtful declaration.

cutting remark

This emphasizes the painful impact of the comment.

sarcastic comment

This highlights the use of irony to mock or convey contempt.

vitriolic statement

This denotes an extremely bitter and venomous expression.

sharp criticism

This focuses on the pointed and severe nature of the disapproval.

acidic remark

This draws a comparison to the corrosive quality of acid, highlighting the damaging effect of the comment.

pungent criticism

This suggests a sharp and stinging disapproval that is easily noticed.

harsh words

This is a general term for severe and unkind language.

FAQs

How can I use "caustic remark" in a sentence?

You can use "caustic remark" to describe a comment that is sharply critical, sarcastic, and often unkind. For example, "The politician's speech was filled with "caustic remarks" aimed at his opponents."

What is a synonym for "caustic remark"?

Synonyms for "caustic remark" include "bitter comment", "scathing observation", or "acerbic statement", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between a "caustic remark" and a "critical comment"?

While both phrases describe negative feedback, a "caustic remark" implies a level of bitterness, sarcasm, or cruelty that is not necessarily present in a more general "critical comment".

Is it appropriate to use "caustic remark" in formal writing?

While not inherently inappropriate, "caustic remark" can sometimes sound overly dramatic or biased in formal writing. Consider whether a more neutral phrase like "pointed criticism" or "sharp observation" might be more suitable.