sarcastic remark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sarcastic remark" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a statement that is meant to convey the opposite of its literal meaning, often in a humorous or mocking way. Example: "Her sarcastic remark about my cooking left me feeling a bit hurt, even though I knew she was joking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

This sarcastic remark unlocked more boos.

The New Yorker

"No pedestrians allowed on sidewalks," was one typically sarcastic remark.

The New York Times

The officer made a sarcastic remark before she left shaking her head," he said.

The Guardian

Canó, of course, could not let Chamberlain depart without a sarcastic remark.

The New York Times - Sports

Like making an inappropriate sarcastic remark at a dinner party that falls completely flat.

The Guardian - Sport

It feels wrong when he doesn't make a sarcastic remark about the three-hour line outside a barbecue shack.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

But she got Poiret fired when, within earshot, he made some sarcastic remarks about the production.

The New Yorker

The captain's wife became suspicious and began making sarcastic remarks to Phoebe.

The New Yorker

They make sarcastic remarks about Reader being a so- called "master criminal".

The Guardian

We remain quite good at interpreting data, pointing out incoherence, making sarcastic remarks.

The Guardian - Opinion

Meg hears taco truck driver making sarcastic remarks about lesbians in Spanish and gives him a piece of her mind!

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sarcastic remarks" to add humor or critique to a situation, but avoid using them excessively, as it can come across as negative or condescending. Balance sarcasm with genuine and sincere communication to maintain positive relationships.

Common error

A common mistake is assuming that sarcasm will be understood in written form without providing adequate context. To avoid misinterpretation, use emoticons, exaggerated language, or explicit disclaimers (e.g., "just kidding") to signal your sarcastic intent. Always consider the recipient's familiarity with your communication style and their potential sensitivity to sarcasm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sarcastic remark" functions as a noun phrase, where "sarcastic" modifies the noun "remark". It identifies a specific type of comment characterized by sarcasm. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

66.67%

Wiki

16.67%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sarcastic remark" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe a statement characterized by sarcasm. According to Ludwig, this phrase is appropriate for use in various contexts, particularly in news and media, where it serves to label and categorize comments that employ sarcasm. While sarcasm itself can be informal, the phrase "sarcastic remark" maintains a neutral register, making it widely applicable. When employing or interpreting "sarcastic remarks", be mindful of context, tone, and audience to ensure effective communication and avoid misinterpretations. Alternatives such as "ironic comment" or "cynical statement" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ironic comment

Replaces "sarcastic" with "ironic", focusing on the use of words to convey a meaning opposite to their literal one.

cynical statement

Substitutes "sarcastic" with "cynical", emphasizing a distrustful or pessimistic attitude.

wry observation

Replaces "sarcastic" with "wry", suggesting a dry or mocking humor.

sardonic comment

Substitutes "sarcastic" with "sardonic", highlighting a scornful or mocking quality.

biting retort

Replaces "remark" with "retort", emphasizing a sharp or witty reply.

cutting remark

Replaces "sarcastic" with "cutting", focusing on the hurtful or offensive nature of the comment.

mocking statement

Replaces "sarcastic" with "mocking", emphasizing the ridiculing or teasing aspect.

snide comment

Replaces "sarcastic" with "snide", indicating a derogatory or insinuating remark.

derisive observation

Replaces "sarcastic" with "derisive", highlighting the contemptuous or ridiculing nature of the remark.

caustic remark

Substitutes "sarcastic" with "caustic", emphasizing the biting and corrosive quality of the remark.

FAQs

How can I effectively deliver a "sarcastic remark"?

Effective delivery relies on tone, timing, and context. Use a tone that subtly contradicts the literal meaning of your words, employ a pause before or after the remark to signal it's sarcasm, and ensure the context allows for humor or light critique. However, be cautious and considerate of your audience's receptiveness.

What are some alternatives to using a "sarcastic remark"?

Depending on your intention, you can use alternatives like an "ironic comment", a "wry observation", or a "cynical statement". Choose the phrase that best fits the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use a "sarcastic remark" in professional settings?

Generally, it's best to avoid "sarcastic remarks" in formal professional settings, especially when communicating with superiors or clients. Sarcasm can be easily misinterpreted and may damage your professional image. However, in more relaxed or informal workplace environments, occasional, well-placed sarcasm may be acceptable among colleagues who understand your communication style.

How can I identify when someone is making a "sarcastic remark"?

Look for cues such as a tone that contradicts the words being spoken, exaggerated expressions, or a mismatch between the statement and the context. Pay attention to the speaker's body language and facial expressions, as these can often provide additional clues about their intent.