What is Sarcasm? And How To Stop It

Everyone has someone in their life—possibly a boss, colleague, friend, or parent who loves sarcastic, passive-aggressive, barbed modes of communication. They love to ‘tease’ and think sarcasm is well-meaning.

What is Sarcasm?

Sarcasm: “The use of irony to mock or convey contempt.” The word “sarcasm” itself has Greek origins, derived from the Greek verb “sarkázein,” which means “to tear flesh” or “to speak bitterly.”

Here are some sarcasm examples:

• That mustard stain really compliments your blonde hair.
• Just great! (When someone runs into you)
• Love this weather. (When the weather is actually horrible)
• Oh, he’s the best. (Talking about someone who actually annoys you.)

New research says that sarcasm is merely thinly veiled meanness. In fact, one study^{1https://www.ffri.hr/~ibrdar/komunikacija/seminari/Kruger,%202006%20-%20Teasing.pdf} shows that teasers usually believe their words are less hurtful than their victim thinks.

Why Do People Use Sarcasm?

Sarcasm happens for five reasons:

1) Insecurity

Whenever someone around me adopts a sarcastic tone, I immediately try to gauge what they are feeling insecure about. For some, using sarcasm or teasing is a way of avoiding confrontation because they are afraid of asking for what they want.

This fear of direct communication often stems from a concern that their request will be rejected or mocked, leading to a loss of face. Sarcasm becomes a mask to hide behind, a way to keep real feelings and needs concealed.

Sarcasm Example: (Mother to Son who wants him to shave before visiting Grandma) “Wow, Grandma always did love that mountain man look.”

Watch our video below to learn how to reinvent yourself with Cues and AMA:

2) Latent Anger

Sarcasm can also arise from passive-aggressive behavior or as a way to assert dominance. For someone who is angry or upset, but too afraid to bring it up, sarcasm can be a disguised barb.

It’s a method of expressing dissatisfaction without taking the risk of open conflict. This approach allows the person to vent some of their frustration without having to face the consequences of a more direct confrontation.

Sarcasm Example: (Wife to Husband after husband forgot to take out the trash) “Gosh! I love when our house looks and smells so clean.”

3) Social Awkwardness

When people are not good at reading those around them, or are not sure how to carry on a conversation, they will often employ sarcasm hoping it sounds playful or affectionate. This is another kind of insecurity, but in this case, it’s more about feeling out of place in a social setting.

You’ll often hear people who feel disconnected or anxious in social situations use sarcasm as an attempt to lighten the mood or bond. Unfortunately, it tends to have the opposite effect—teasees often interpret sarcastic incidents as malicious and annoying.

Sarcasm Example: (Man at networking event) “This buffet spread looks great! Guess it mirrors this company’s portfolio, huh?”

4) A Desire to Show Superiority

Sometimes, sarcasm is used as a tool to demonstrate intellectual superiority or wit. This can happen in competitive environments, among friends, or even in professional settings where someone wants to stand out as clever or sharp.

By using sarcasm, individuals may feel they are showcasing their intelligence or quick thinking, but it can also create a divide or alienation with those they are communicating with.

Sarcasm Example: (Coworker to another) “Another PowerPoint presentation? You must be aiming for a career in novel writing!”

5) A Way to Minimize Vulnerability

Sarcasm can be a way for people to minimize their vulnerability in a conversation or interaction. When I’m faced with emotional topics or difficult discussions, I’ve noticed that some may use sarcasm as a coping mechanism to detach themselves from the seriousness of the situation.

By making a sarcastic comment, they can distance themselves from the vulnerability of being open and sincere about their feelings or thoughts, creating a barrier that makes them feel safer.

Sarcasm Example: (Person asked about their feelings on a recent breakup) “Me? Heartbroken? No, I always dreamed of being single again at this stage in my life!”

Sarcasm is not only hurtful, but it is also the least genuine mode of communication.

How to Stop Sarcasm

What can you do if you have someone sarcastic in your life? First, you can try sending them this article or posting it on social media and see if they get the hint. If that is a little too direct, next time you are with the teaser, take what I call, the “Genuine Approach”.

Try the Genuine Approach

The Genuine Approach is when you take everything the sarcastic person says as a genuine comment without the sarcastic tone.

For example, I was recently with a friend of a friend who constantly makes sarcastic comments—preventing genuine conversation. I employed the “Genuine Approach” here:

• Her: “Hey, I saw you on CNN the other day.”
• Me: “Oh, cool.”
• Her: [Sarcastic Tone] “Yeah, I could barely recognize you with all of that makeup on.”
• Me: “Oh wow, really? That’s not good at all. Do you think people in the audience didn’t know it was me? Should I email the make-up artists about it?”

At this, she became flustered and said something along the lines of, “Well, it’s not that I couldn’t recognize you, I mean, it was, well, oh, never mind.” I continued to do this throughout the night, and eventually, she started to have real conversations with us and make genuine comments—which we received warmly and with encouragement.

And it’s not that difficult to make great conversation, either—IF you know what to do. That’s why we created the ultimate course on enriching further your self-improvement skills. Grab it here:

Play the Mirror Game

The Mirror Game is a strategy where you reflect the sarcasm back to the person in a playful and non-confrontational manner.

For example, at a family gathering, my cousin, known for his (sometimes not-so-witty) sarcasm, decided to take a jab at my culinary skills:

Him: [Sarcastic Tone] “Wow, I didn’t know they served five-star meals at amateur cook-offs.”

Me: [Playful Tone] “Oh, absolutely! I’m thinking of opening a restaurant in my garage. You’re invited to the grand opening; black-tie event, of course.”

Him: [Caught off guard, chuckling] “Well, as long as you’re the chef, count me in.”

By mirroring his sarcasm with a playful twist, I was able to turn it into a light-hearted moment. If I took it too seriously, it might’ve gone something like this…

Him: [Sarcastic Tone] “Wow, I didn’t know they served five-star meals at amateur cook-offs.”

Me: [Defensively] “What do you mean by that? I worked really hard on this dish. Do you have something against my cooking? Why can’t you just appreciate the effort?”

Him: [Defensively, in return] “Hey, I was just joking! Why are you getting so upset? It’s not like you’re a professional chef or anything.”

That could’ve spoiled the night! Instead, we both ended up laughing, and the conversation moved into more genuine territory. The Mirror Game can be a powerful tool in your conversational toolbox, but it does require a certain level of finesse and timing. Practice makes perfect!

Become a “Sarcasm Translator”

Respond to sarcastic comments by translating them into what the person might actually mean.

Here’s how it went down in a recent encounter a friend of mine had:

• Coworker: [Sarcastic Tone] “Great job on the presentation. I loved how you put everyone to sleep.”
• Friend: [Calm Tone] “Sounds like you think I could have made the presentation more engaging. I appreciate your input; do you have any specific suggestions?”

At this point, the coworker’s expression changed immediately, and they actually started to provide some helpful feedback. My friend ended up being grateful for the coworker’s pointers, which could’ve gone pretty bad if my friend took it personally.

By translating sarcasm into a straightforward observation or question, you’re steering the conversation back to a place of authenticity. You’re not only acknowledging the criticism but inviting further discussion. This DOES take some vulnerability, though.

Try it out and see how it changes the dynamics of your interactions!

What Are The Characteristics of Sarcasm?

In a nutshell, sarcasm is a complex and multifaceted form of communication that can be both engaging and risky. It’s a dance of words that requires an understanding of context, knowledge of body language, and good social skills.

Let’s break down its defining characteristics:

• Tone of Voice: Sarcasm often lurks in a particular intonation that’s hard to miss. It’s a voice dripping with irony, saying something but meaning the exact opposite. If words were a melody, sarcasm would be that unexpected dissonant chord that makes you raise an eyebrow.

Example: “Oh, great! Another flat tire,” said no one ever sincerely.

• Facial Expressions: The sarcastic face is an art form. A smirk, a raised eyebrow, or a rolling of the eyes, these subtle cues signal that the speaker is engaging in verbal gymnastics.

Example: “I just love sitting in traffic,” she said, her eyes wide with feigned enthusiasm.

• Underlying Discontent: More often than not, sarcasm hides a kernel of truth disguised in humor or mockery. It can be a tool to vent frustration or criticism without directly addressing the issue.

Example: “I’m so thrilled to be working late again tonight,” might be the disguised cry of an overworked employee.

• Potential for Miscommunication: Sarcasm can be like dancing on a tightrope. If both parties aren’t in sync, someone might take a tumble. Not everyone “gets” sarcasm, and it can lead to misunderstandings, especially in written communication, where tone can be easily misconstrued.

Example: “Sure, take your time. I have nowhere else to be,” can be seen as accommodating by one person and passive-aggressive by another.

• Context-Sensitive: Sarcasm changes its colors depending on the situation. What might be funny and accepted among friends can be viewed as unprofessional or even offensive in a different setting.

Example: A sarcastic comment about the boss’s new policy might get laughs in the break room but frosty stares in a staff meeting.

What is a Word That Means Sarcasm?

There are several words that can be used as synonyms for sarcasm. Here are some of them:

• Irony: the opposite of what’s expected or intended
• Satire: the use of humor to criticize or mock
• Ridicule: mocking or teasing in a contemptuous manner
• Mockery: making fun of or imitating someone or something
• Cynicism: distrustful or sarcastic attitude or belief
• Banter: playful and teasing conversation or exchange
• Taunt: provoking or mocking someone with insulting remarks
• Sneering: expressing contempt or scorn through facial expressions or tone
• Sardonicism: mocking or cynical tone or attitude
• Witticism: a clever or humorous remark
• Humor: amusing or comical quality or behavior
• Backhandedness: indirect insult or compliment with a hidden negative meaning

Is Sarcasm Always Negative?

Sarcasm, often seen as a sharp-tongued cousin of humor, has earned a reputation for being cutting or offensive. Yes, it can be used as a verbal weapon disguised as criticism or even bullying. However, sarcasm also has a brighter side. It can be a form of witty banter between friends, lightening the mood in tense situations and adding a touch of cleverness to conversations.

It all comes down to balance, context, and understanding. Used with finesse, sarcasm can be a flavorful twist to communication, but mishandled, it can leave a bitter taste.

How Does Sarcasm Vary Across Cultures?

In some cultures, sarcasm is highly used and favored. Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia have a strong taste for sarcastic humor. It’s a way of bonding, teasing, and showing camaraderie. People here often use sarcasm as a sign of friendship, and those who can dish it out and take it in return are seen as part of the “cool club.”

On the flip side, many cultures view sarcasm as impolite and disrespectful. In countries like Japan or some parts of Asia, directness and sincerity are valued. Sarcasm can be interpreted as rude or mocking, and people may avoid using it altogether. Instead, humor tends to be more subtle, using puns, wordplay, or gentle jokes that don’t risk offense.

Ultimately, some societies value directness and transparency, while others embrace irony and clever wordplay.

Can Sarcasm Enhance Creativity?

Recent scientific studies have shown that sarcasm can also have a positive effect on creativity. In fact, sarcasm can be the highest form of intelligence, according to Harvard researchers^{2https://www.hbs.edu/ris/Publication%20Files/Huang%20Gino%20Galinsky%20OBHDP%202015_f4efb1e9-b842-4764-a292-ac4836c29cb2.pdf}, increasing creativity in both the sarcastic quipper and the person receiving the sarcasm.

Instead of avoiding sarcasm completely in the office, the research^{3https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-surprising-benefits-of-sarcasm/} suggests sarcasm, used with care and in moderation, can be effectively used and trigger some creative sparks.

Because the brain must think creatively to understand or convey a sarcastic comment, sarcasm may lead to clearer and more creative thinking.

In the end, some lighthearted teasing can be ok, but for the most part, we should encourage genuine interaction in our communication and try to get to the heart of the person we are speaking with. Read more: Be an Expert at Witty Banter…How to Charm With Your Words