mordacious

/mɔ:'deiʃəs/

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The word "mordacious" is an adjective that describes something that is biting or sharp, often in a figurative sense. It can refer to comments or remarks that are sharply critical or sarcastic. Think of it as a way to describe language that can "hurt" someone's feelings because it is very direct or harsh.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use: Use "mordacious" when you want to describe a comment, remark, or style of writing that is not only critical but also has a kind of biting wit or sharpness.
• How to use: It typically comes before a noun. For example, you might say "mordacious humor" or "mordacious remarks."

Example:

• "The movie was filled with mordacious humor, making fun of serious topics in a way that was both funny and uncomfortable."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "mordacious" can be used to describe literature or speeches that employ biting satire. For instance: - "The author's mordacious critique of societal norms left readers both amused and challenged."

Word Variants:

• Mordacity (noun): This term refers to the quality of being mordacious. For example: "The mordacity of his comments was evident."
• Mordaciously (adverb): This form describes the manner of speaking or writing in a mordacious way. For example: "She spoke mordaciously, not holding back her true feelings."

Different Meanings:

While "mordacious" primarily refers to biting or sharp remarks, it can also convey a sense of harshness in criticism or humor. It is not commonly used to describe physical biting.

Synonyms:

Some synonyms for "mordacious" include: - Biting - Sarcastic - Caustic - Sharp - Scathing

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that use "mordacious," but you might encounter phrases like "sharp tongue" or "cutting remarks," which convey a similar meaning.

Academic

Adjective

1. biting or given to biting
   • they deliberately gave me a skittish and mordacious mount
2. capable of wounding
   • a barbed compliment
   • a biting aphorism
   • pungent satire

Synonyms

• barbed
• biting
• nipping
• pungent