Definition

Verb: 1. To criticize or ridicule someone or something through the use of satire: This involves using humor, irony, exaggeration, or mockery to expose and criticize people's stupidity, vices, or the flaws of institutions.

Usage

The verb "satirise" (also spelled "satirize" in American English) is a transitive verb, meaning it requires a direct object. It is used to describe the act of creating satire about a specific target, such as a person, group, idea, or social norm. It implies a critical and often humorous intent.

Examples

• The cartoonist satirised the celebrity's extravagant lifestyle in a series of drawings.
• In his new novel, the author satirises corporate culture and its obsession with productivity.
• The television show is famous for satirising current political events every week.

Advanced Usage

• To be satirised: This passive construction indicates that someone or something has become the target of satire.
  • Politicians are frequently satirised in late-night comedy shows.
• Satirising for effect: The act is often done not just to mock, but to provoke thought or highlight hypocrisy.
  • The playwright succeeded in satirising societal greed, making the audience laugh and then reflect.

Variants and Related Words

• Satire (n): The genre or technique itself, involving the use of humor and wit to criticize.
  • Jonathan Swift's "A Modest Proposal" is a masterpiece of satire.
• Satirical (adj): Describing something that contains or uses satire.
  • The article offered a satirical take on modern dating apps.
• Satirist (n): A person who writes or performs satire.
  • The columnist is a sharp satirist of contemporary life.

Synonyms

• Lampoon: To publicly criticize using ridicule or irony.
• Mock: To tease or laugh at in a scornful or contemptuous manner.
• Parody: To imitate the style of something for comic effect or ridicule.

Antonyms

• Praise: To express warm approval or admiration.
• Flatter: To praise excessively, especially from motives of self-interest.
• Compliment: To politely congratulate or praise.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• A satirical eye/view: A perspective that naturally looks for the absurd or hypocritical to critique.
  • She views the world of fashion with a satirical eye.
• The butt of satire: The person or thing being satirised.
  • The corrupt official became the butt of satire for cartoonists nationwide.

Verb

1. ridicule with satire
   • The writer satirized the politician's proposal