Synonym Chooser

How does the noun sarcasm differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of sarcasm are humor, irony, repartee, satire, and wit. While all these words mean "a mode of expression intended to arouse amusement," sarcasm applies to expression frequently in the form of irony that is intended to cut or wound.

given to heartless sarcasm

When might humor be a better fit than sarcasm?

The words humor and sarcasm are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, humor implies an ability to perceive the ludicrous, the comical, and the absurd in human life and to express these usually without bitterness.

a sense of humor

When can irony be used instead of sarcasm?

While in some cases nearly identical to sarcasm, irony applies to a manner of expression in which the intended meaning is the opposite of what is seemingly expressed.

the irony of the title

In what contexts can repartee take the place of sarcasm?

While the synonyms repartee and sarcasm are close in meaning, repartee implies the power of answering quickly, pointedly, or wittily.

a dinner guest noted for repartee

When is satire a more appropriate choice than sarcasm?

In some situations, the words satire and sarcasm are roughly equivalent. However, satire applies to writing that exposes or ridicules conduct, doctrines, or institutions either by direct criticism or more often through irony, parody, or caricature.

a satire on the Congress

When would wit be a good substitute for sarcasm?

The meanings of wit and sarcasm largely overlap; however, wit suggests the power to evoke laughter by remarks showing verbal felicity or ingenuity and swift perception especially of the incongruous.

a playful wit

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sarcasm TikTok Reacts The clip has already racked up more than 26,000 likes and nearly 100 comments, many filled with sarcasm and jokes. Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Aug. 2025 Like his previous films, Jude’s 170-minute romp is loaded with trenchant political messages, sarcasm, bawdy humor and a heavy dose of Romanian fatalism. Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 10 Aug. 2025 Harry's sense of humor and ability to give zesty one-liners connect him with the Mercurial sign, which has a flair for sarcasm, pranks, jokes and communication. Lisa Stardust, People.com, 8 Aug. 2025 The cast agrees that Art captures something uniquely male: the quiet volatility of old friendships—where rage and resentment so often burbles beneath the jokes, the sarcasm, and the silence. Adrienne Miller, Vogue, 7 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sarcasm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sarcasm
Noun
  • Perhaps, like Elizabeth in the face of Darcy’s insult, Austen would also be prompted to spread spirited gossip about her heroine’s doubters and haters.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 4 Sep. 2025
  • When big gatherings of police and federal agents suddenly show up in residential areas, crowds often meet them with cell phone cameras, righteous indignation and insults.
    Daniel C. Vock, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • That discontent over economic hardship has morphed into a broader outrage after a motorcycle taxi driver was reportedly killed during police action at a protest site last Thursday.
    Anniek Bao, CNBC, 1 Sep. 2025
  • The video went viral, sparking global outrage and bringing attention to both their business and private lives.
    Emma Marsden, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sarcasm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sarcasm. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.

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