wry comments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wry comments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe remarks that are dryly humorous or sarcastic, often conveying a sense of irony. Example: "Her wry comments about the situation lightened the mood during the tense meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

This is an intelligent and workmanlike biography, although hardly a page-turner, and salted with wry comments throughout.

The New York Times - Books

The jokes, witticisms and wry comments are part of his DNA, and they are not going away because of games that are lost.

The New York Times - Sports

"All knew his green and gold colours and looked forward to his wry comments in interviews, especially around the time of the race that stops the nation.

The Guardian - Sport

The choice of venue certainly sparked some wry comments, the pick of which came from David Behan, director general for social care at the Department of Health.

The Guardian

This book is an account of how he ended up there, with occasional wry comments from his father in the footnotes.

The Guardian - Books

That is conveyed by Jack's wry comments like "Look at me, I'm naked," and a penchant for turning up in the oddest places.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

I told Morning Joe how reassuring that is to me, and in response to a wry comment from commentator Mike Barnicle that they must be doing "God's work," I suggested that I was sure God really appreciated this public relations gesture on the part of the big banks.

Huffington Post

"Then," Mr. McGinniss remembers, "he made this wry comment.

The New York Times

A wry comment, perhaps, on the destructive potential of language.

The New Yorker

Sometimes it's an illustration, sometimes a wry comment.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Regis also offered a wry comment about one Travel Channel series, "Slice of Brooklyn".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wry comments" to add a subtle layer of humor or irony to your writing. It's effective when you want to convey amusement or skepticism without being overtly critical.

Common error

Avoid using "wry comments" when you intend to express straightforward sarcasm or bitterness. Wryness implies a more subtle and thoughtful form of humor, not outright negativity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wry comments" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "wry" modifies "comments". It describes the type or quality of the comments being made, indicating they possess a subtle, ironic, or dryly humorous nature, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wry comments" is a phrase used to describe remarks that are subtly humorous or ironic. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use, particularly in news and media. The phrase adds a layer of sophistication to writing, conveying amusement or skepticism without being overtly critical. To enhance writing, use it for subtle humor, and avoid it when direct sarcasm is intended. Alternatives like "sardonic remarks" or "ironic observations" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Be cautious in formal settings, and always consider the audience and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sardonic remarks

Emphasizes a more cynical or mocking tone compared to "wry comments".

ironic observations

Highlights the use of irony in the comments, focusing on the contrast between what is said and what is meant.

dry witticisms

Replaces "comments" with "witticisms", emphasizing the clever and humorous nature of the remarks.

droll remarks

Uses "droll" to describe the comments, suggesting a quietly amusing or odd quality.

sarcastic remarks

Highlights the use of sarcasm in the comments, suggesting a more biting or critical tone.

acerbic observations

Emphasizes the sharp and biting quality of the observations, suggesting a critical perspective.

dry observations

Focuses on the understated and unemotional delivery of the comments.

understated jokes

Highlights the subtle and restrained nature of the humor.

deadpan remarks

Emphasizes the expressionless or impassive manner in which the comments are delivered.

satirical quips

Indicates that the comments are intended to mock or criticize something in a humorous way.

FAQs

How can I incorporate "wry comments" into my writing?

Incorporate "wry comments" by using subtle, ironic humor to make a point without being overly aggressive or sarcastic. It's about adding a layer of amusement or skepticism to your observations.

What are some alternatives to "wry comments"?

You can use alternatives like "sardonic remarks", "ironic observations", or "droll remarks" to convey similar meanings, depending on the specific nuance you want to emphasize.

Is it appropriate to use "wry comments" in formal writing?

While "wry comments" can be used in formal writing, consider the context and audience. It's generally more suitable for situations where a touch of humor or irony is acceptable, rather than strictly serious or academic contexts.

What's the difference between "wry comments" and sarcastic remarks?

"Wry comments" imply a subtle, often thoughtful form of humor or irony, while sarcastic remarks are typically more direct and can be biting or critical. Wryness is more about understatement and amusement, while sarcasm often involves mockery.