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sardonic

Q: How is the word 'sardonic' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of sardonic are ironic , sarcastic , and satiric . While all these words mean "marked by bitterness and a power or will to cut or sting," sardonic implies scorn, mockery, or derision that is manifested by either verbal or facial expression. // surveyed the scene with a sardonic smile

Q: When is 'ironic' a more appropriate choice than 'sardonic'?

The words ironic and sardonic can be used in similar contexts, but 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

Q: Where would 'sarcastic' be a reasonable alternative to 'sardonic'?

The synonyms sarcastic and sardonic are sometimes interchangeable, but sarcastic implies an intentional inflicting of pain by deriding, taunting, or ridiculing. // a critic known for his sarcastic remarks

Q: When might 'satiric' be a better fit than 'sardonic'?

Although the words satiric and sardonic have much in common, satiric implies that the intent of the ridiculing is censure and reprobation. // a satiric look at contemporary society

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Synonyms & Antonyms of sardonic

marked by the use of wit that is intended to cause hurt feelings

a sardonic little jab that made her visitor quiet and subdued for the rest of the night

Synonyms for sardonic

Words Related to sardonic

Near Antonyms for sardonic

gentle,
mild

bland

Frequently Asked Questions About sardonic

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

Some common synonyms of sardonic are ironic, sarcastic, and satiric. While all these words mean "marked by bitterness and a power or will to cut or sting," sardonic implies scorn, mockery, or derision that is manifested by either verbal or facial expression.

surveyed the scene with a sardonic smile

When is ironic a more appropriate choice than sardonic?

The words ironic and sardonic can be used in similar contexts, but 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

Where would sarcastic be a reasonable alternative to sardonic?

The synonyms sarcastic and sardonic are sometimes interchangeable, but sarcastic implies an intentional inflicting of pain by deriding, taunting, or ridiculing.

a critic known for his sarcastic remarks