Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Sarcastic; ironic; sardonic: Describes a manner of speaking or writing that uses bitter, cutting, or contemptuous humor to mock or convey scorn. It implies a sharp, often hurtful, form of irony.
   • Derisive; sneering: Conveys a tone of ridicule or scornful mockery.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Anh ấy nói với giọng mai mỉa. (He spoke in a sarcastic tone.)
  • Lời bình luận mai mỉa của cô ấy làm mọi người khó chịu. (Her sardonic comment made everyone uncomfortable.)
  • Một nụ cười mai mỉa xuất hiện trên khuôn mặt anh ta. (A sneering smile appeared on his face.)

Advanced Usage

• The word is often used to describe not just words, but also tones of voice, smiles, laughter, or attitudes that are deeply mocking and intentionally hurtful.
• It can modify nouns like "giọng nói" (tone of voice), "lời nói" (words), "nụ cười" (smile), or "thái độ" (attitude).

Variants and Related Words

• Mỉa mai: This is a direct synonym and variant with identical meaning and usage. The two words are often used interchangeably.
  • Cô ấy có tài dùng những lời mỉa mai sắc bén. (She has a talent for using sharp, ironic remarks.)

Synonyms

• Sarcastic: Marked by or given to using irony in order to mock or convey contempt.
• Ironic: Using words to convey a meaning opposite to their literal meaning, often for humorous or emphatic effect.
• Sardonic: Grimly mocking or cynical.
• Derisive: Expressing contempt or ridicule.

Related Idioms

• Mỉa mai châm biếm: To satirize and ridicule; a phrase emphasizing a combination of irony and satire.
  • Bài viết của ông ấy đầy tính chất mỉa mai châm biếm xã hội. (His writing is full of social satire and ridicule.)