Synonym Chooser

How is the word sarcastic different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of sarcastic are ironic, sardonic, and satiric. While all these words mean "marked by bitterness and a power or will to cut or sting," sarcastic implies an intentional inflicting of pain by deriding, taunting, or ridiculing.

a critic known for his sarcastic remarks

When is it sensible to use ironic instead of sarcastic?

In some situations, the words ironic and sarcastic are roughly equivalent. However, ironic implies an attempt to be amusing or provocative by saying usually the opposite of what is meant.

made the ironic observation that the government could always be trusted

When would sardonic be a good substitute for sarcastic?

The meanings of sardonic and sarcastic largely overlap; however, sardonic implies scorn, mockery, or derision that is manifested by either verbal or facial expression.

surveyed the scene with a sardonic smile

In what contexts can satiric take the place of sarcastic?

While in some cases nearly identical to sarcastic, satiric implies that the intent of the ridiculing is censure and reprobation.

a satiric look at contemporary society

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 sarcastic Emmy-nominated for the role the first time out, Ramsey is genius in it, the perfect amounts of precocious, sarcastic, and wide-eyedly vulnerable. Zing Tsjeng, Vogue, 11 Apr. 2025 What about someone who posts a meme that is satirical or a comment that is meant to be sarcastic? Peter Suciu, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025 Others thought Drake was being sarcastic after JB allegedly unfollowed Drizzy on Instagram earlier this week. Michael Saponara, Billboard, 7 Apr. 2025 Always down to gossip and party, Redmond exudes Gemini's energy through his zesty and sarcastic attitude. Lisa Stardust, People.com, 31 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sarcastic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sarcastic
Adjective
  • That’s the premise of Douglas Is Cancelled, a cruelly funny 2024 BBC sitcom that seems very much in sync with satiric comedies such as The Office and W1A and Yes Minister.
    Air Mail, Air Mail, 22 Mar. 2025
  • Misery, a horror movie with a satiric streak, launched Bates’s film stardom.
    Tim Grierson, Vulture, 21 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Some also claim that tomatoes turn out sweeter in less acidic soil, though the sugar content of a tomato may have more to do with that.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 16 May 2025
  • Prep the Soil Watermelons are heavy feeders that need full sun, well-draining and slightly acidic soil, and lots of nutrients to grow.
    Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • Negan honored his wife by naming his deadly barbed wire baseball bat after her.
    Christopher Rudolph, People.com, 5 May 2025
  • The bat wrapped in barbed wire is back in a new iteration, informing much of Negan’s journey in the Season 2.
    Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 2 May 2025
Adjective
  • Also, eating large quantities of food can lead to increase acid production and acid reflux.
    Hannah Yasharoff, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025
  • Gastrointestinal Symptoms Fish oil may stimulate acid production in the stomach, which can cause heartburn or indigestion—especially if taken on an empty stomach.
    Amy Brownstein, MS, RDN, Verywell Health, 7 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sarcastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sarcastic. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on sarcastic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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