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 Green’s teammate, Moses Moody, gave a sarcastic response to Brooks’ assertion. Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 25 Apr. 2025 It was followed by a sarcastic post targeting Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.). Ashleigh Fields, The Hill, 16 Mar. 2025 Goldberg continued before asking her co-hosts their opinions in a sarcastic tone. Liza Esquibias, People.com, 24 Apr. 2025 Where Jackie is sarcastic, cynical, and all sharp edges, Zoey is enthusiastic and warm. Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 21 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sarcastic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sarcastic
Adjective
  • All Systems Red is a legible introduction to Wells’ hyper-capitalist, playfully satiric galaxy.
    Rory Doherty, Time, 16 May 2025
  • 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
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
  • The inmates used blankets to protect themselves from the barbed wire on the fence.
    Alex Sundby, CBS News, 21 May 2025
  • The men brought blankets to protect themselves from barbed wire.
    Cindy Von Quednow, CNN Money, 20 May 2025
Adjective
  • Azaleas do like an acid soil and grow best when the soil acidity is in the pH range of 4.5 to 5.5.
    Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 May 2025
  • Fluoride also replaces minerals lost from teeth due to acid breakdown, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
    Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 15 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sarcastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sarcastic. Accessed 31 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on sarcastic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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