WordGarden.iosarcastically
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /sɑːkˈɑːstɪkli/
US
- /sɑrˈkæstɪkli/
Meanings
Adverb
with mocking irony or scorn
Beyond the definition
Imagine someone trips and falls. A kind person would ask if they're okay. Someone speaking sarcastically might say, "Oh, nice landing," in a tone that clearly means the opposite. Sarcasm often works by saying one thing but meaning another, usually to be funny, critical, or both. When someone speaks sarcastically, the tone matters as much as the words. It often appears when a person is annoyed or wants to show disapproval without saying it directly. You can think of it as a verbal eye-roll. It usually fits better in light or informal situations than in serious moments, where it may sound rude or uncaring.
To speak or act sarcastically is to use irony and mockery in order to convey contempt or amusement. It's more than just saying something untrue; it's about how you say it—with a specific tone of voice that signals you don't mean what you're literally stating.
The word itself comes from the Greek sarkazein, meaning "to tear flesh," which gives you a hint of its often biting nature! While sarcasm can be playful and humorous, it frequently carries an edge of criticism or disapproval. Someone might sarcastically compliment your messy room by saying, "Oh, what a wonderfully organized space!"—clearly implying the opposite is true.
Context is key when interpreting sarcastic remarks. A flat delivery could easily be mistaken for genuine sincerity. It's often signaled through vocal cues like exaggerated intonation, pauses, or a dry tone.
Sarcasm isn't always well-received; it can come across as rude or dismissive if not used carefully. However, in the right setting and with the right people, sarcastic wit can be a sign of intelligence and playful banter. Think of characters on sitcoms who are known for their dry humor—they often deliver lines sarcastically.
So, when someone says something that sounds too good to be true, or seems oddly out of place, pay attention to the delivery. If it's dripping with irony and a hint of playful disdain, chances are they're speaking sarcastically.
Examples
- 1
Bad timing
“Perfect timing,” she said sarcastically as the bus pulled away.
- 2
Family teasing
He sarcastically thanked his brother for eating the last slice of pizza.
- 3
Frustration
“Oh, that's exactly what I needed today,” Maya replied sarcastically when her laptop froze.
- 4
Workplace criticism
The manager sarcastically asked whether anyone had remembered the deadline.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Meeting remark
“Sure, because nothing ever goes wrong here,” Dan said sarcastically during the meeting.
- 6
Digital messages
Online, it is sometimes hard to tell whether a comment was meant sarcastically or seriously.
- Phrasemeant sarcastically
intended as sarcasm, not meant literally
See also
Similar
- mockingly
- sardonically
- snidely
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
- satirically
Used with (collocations)
- say sarcastically
- reply sarcastically
- smile sarcastically
Word family
Explore
- verbal irony
- ridicule
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- sarcasticallyadverb