mordancy

A critic's mordancy can make an interview uncomfortable.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Biting quality: "Mordancy" refers to a sharp, caustic, or sarcastic quality in speech, writing, or tone. It describes the ability to wound or criticize in a cutting manner.
   • Corrosive property: In a literal sense, "mordancy" can mean the quality of having a corrosive or biting effect, as in an acid or chemical.

Usage Examples

• Biting quality in speech:

  • The critic's review was full of mordancy, leaving the author deeply hurt. (The review was sharply sarcastic and cutting.)
  • Her mordancy in the debate made her opponents uncomfortable. (Her sharp, caustic remarks were intended to wound.)

• Corrosive property:

  • The mordancy of the acid ate through the metal quickly. (The corrosive quality of the acid caused rapid erosion.)

Advanced Usage

• "Mordancy of wit": A phrase used to describe a particularly sharp and sarcastic sense of humour.

  • His mordancy of wit made him both feared and admired in social circles. (His biting sarcasm was a notable trait.)

• "Mordancy in satire": The use of caustic criticism in satirical works.

  • The mordancy in the cartoonist's satire exposed the absurdity of the policy. (The sharp, biting nature of the satire was effective.)

Variants and Related Words

• Mordant (adj): having a sharp or critical quality; biting.

  • His mordant remark silenced the room. (His sharp, sarcastic comment had a strong effect.)

• Mordacity (n): a synonym for mordancy; the quality of being caustic or biting.

  • The mordacity of her speech was unexpected. (The sharpness of her words surprised everyone.)

Synonyms

• Causticity: the quality of being sarcastic or corrosive.
• Acerbity: harshness or bitterness of tone.
• Sarcasm: the use of irony to mock or convey contempt.
• Vitriol: cruel and bitter criticism.

Related Idioms

• A biting tongue: a tendency to make sharp, critical remarks.

  • She has a biting tongue, so be careful what you say. (She is known for her mordancy.)

• To cut to the quick: to hurt someone deeply with words.

  • His mordancy cut to the quick, and she left the room in tears. (His sharp words caused deep emotional pain.)