Sarcasm is a sharp and cutting expression or remark, a bitter taunt or gibe and can when used, employ ambivalence. Sarcasm isn't right, made worse if you’re continually on the receiving end of someone’s sarcasm. It is a satirical remark tempered by humour, used by people to say the opposite of what’s true and to make someone feel foolish.

Sarcasm is about tone and context

Sarcasm is about tone, context. It's something you will recognise and know when you hear. It is important not to take the words literal. The cutting, satirical remarks can and do hurt. If you want to improve your relationships and be happier, cut out any use of sarcasm.

Sarcasm hurts

It is hostility disguised as humour. People who are on the receiving end of someone’s sarcastic taunts will feel put down and hurt. In fact, sarcasm which is derived from the Greek word ‘sarkazein’ which means ‘to tear or strip the flesh off’ which is a metaphor for 'speaking bitterly' and that hurts.

Sarcasm is bullying

Sarcasm is often used as a subtle form of bullying, bullies who use it are insecure or angry, although they do not see or will admit they are bullies. Sarcasm changes the dynamics of a relationship and if used continually creates hostility. It mustn’t be confused with wit.

Sarcasm is divisive

Witty statements are usually in response to someone’s unhelpful remarks or behaviour, with an intent to unravel and clarify the issue by highlight its absurdities, sarcasm when used is intended to hurt, it’s caustic and bitter. Where sarcasm continues to be used as a communication tool, it will continue to cause rifts between people.

Sarcastic statements are usually expressed in a cutting manner and for maximum effect, and mustn't be confused with humour. Witty remarks are however, delivered with undisguised and usually harmless humour.