California Teacher Credentialing Examination (CSET) 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Sarcasm is a form of verbal irony where someone says the opposite of what they mean, often in a mocking or contemptuous tone. This means that the speaker intends to convey criticism, disdain, or ridicule rather than a straightforward or sincere message. When sarcasm is employed, the words may sound complimentary or neutral on the surface, but the underlying intent is typically harsher, aiming to highlight faults or shortcomings indirectly.

In identifying sarcasm, one can recognize that the speaker is often exaggerating or employing a tone that contradicts the literal meaning of their words. This can lead to humor but can also create misunderstanding or offense, depending on the context and the relationship between the speaker and the listener.

Understanding this concept is crucial in communication, particularly in educational settings, where tone and context can significantly affect how messages are received.