caustic remark
Definition
Noun: A sharp, bitter, or cutting expression intended to mock, insult, or show contempt. It is characterized by wit and a deliberate intent to hurt or belittle.
Usage
A "caustic remark" is a specific, often cleverly phrased comment that is sarcastic, scornful, or severely critical. It is used to express disdain or to wound with words.
Examples
- Her caustic remark about his presentation skills left him speechless and embarrassed.
- The critic was known for his caustic remarks, which could dismantle a performer's confidence.
- Instead of offering constructive feedback, he made a caustic remark about her lack of experience.
Advanced Usage
- "to make/deliver a caustic remark": To utter a specifically cutting comment.
- She paused, then delivered a perfectly timed caustic remark that silenced the room.
- "a stream/barrage of caustic remarks": A series of many insulting comments.
- He endured a barrage of caustic remarks from his rivals during the debate.
Variants and Related Words
- Caustic (adj): Capable of burning or corroding; figuratively, bitterly sarcastic.
- His caustic wit made him both feared and admired.
- Causticity (n): The quality of being caustic.
- The causticity of her humor was not appreciated by everyone.
Synonyms
- Sarcasm: The use of irony to mock or convey contempt.
- Gibe/Jibe: A taunting or sarcastic remark.
- Barb: A deliberately hurtful remark.
- Invective: Insulting, abusive, or highly critical language.
Related Phrases
- Acerbic comment: A remark that is sharp and forthright, often harsh in tone.
- His acerbic comments during the meeting created a tense atmosphere.
- Cutting observation: A perceptive remark that is delivered in a hurtful way.
- Her cutting observation about his insecurity hit too close to home.
Noun
-
witty language used to convey insults or scorn
-
he used sarcasm to upset his opponent
-
irony is wasted on the stupid
-
Satire is a sort of glass, wherein beholders do generally discover everybody's face but their own--Jonathan Swift
-
