Sarcastic remarks can be apt and witty. But sometimes they can hurt others. Often they are highly inappropriate and unpleasant. Yes, sarcasm can be a sign of wit and even creativity. But it can also be very toxic to our relationships. One inappropriate remark can cost us friends. In the family, a single sentence can cost us hours and hours of explanations and apologies. Or hours of silence.

What’s going on here

Sarcasm is described in dictionaries as using words that mean the opposite of what you really want to say. Often for the purpose of insult. Sometimes sarcasm is used to show irritation. It is a rather biting statement that can be hurtful to others. The word sarcasm comes from the Greek. The original term literally translates as “to tear flesh”. Sarcasm has been with us since antiquity and had its place in the Middle Ages when it was used primarily in literary works.

A simple example of sarcasm is the Late Coming commentary. “Good thing you’re so punctual!” Another example would be a comment on a failed lunch. “High gastronomy, truly magnificent.” People also often make sarcastic comments when someone else fails to complete a simple task. “That must have been a big challenge.”

Can you spot sarcasm?

According to research from the University of California, San Francisco, the right parahippocampal gyrus is responsible for recognizing sarcasm. This area of the brain can be damaged in some people. Such individuals lose the ability to perceive sarcasm and take all statements literally. Sarcasm is easier to recognize in spoken form. We rely on the tone of voice and also on facial expressions.

In the text, however, these signals are completely absent. This is why sarcasm in messages or emails is often misunderstood. All that is left are the words. The recipients of such texts are confused and do not know what the writer actually meant. Psychologists in such a case talk about the egocentrism of the email. Tell yourself, do you also hear a sarcastic tone in your head while writing? Only the recipient does not hear it logically.

━━ ( Source: Christian Wiediger /  Unsplash+ )

Why we use sarcasm

Why is sarcasm part of our conversations, used in literature or other culture? Why don’t we just say what we think. According to experts, sarcasm has several functions. For many, it is a shield against insecurity. Judge for yourself. Those who laugh at everything are less disappointed. They can’t be hurt.

Plus, it’s a tool to express anger in a somewhat covert way. Some people don’t have the strength to disagree, and sarcasm helps them express their opinion without taking full responsibility for it. It sounds like sarcasm is only used by people who are not direct and brave. That’s not true. Sarcasm requires a large brain capacity. It can enhance creativity. That’s why intelligent people use it.

Sarcasm in culture

Sarcasm plays an important role in culture. It is a way of dealing with the insecurities and fears characteristic of life. It is also a tool for criticizing social norms. On television, sarcasm can be seen in shows such as Dr. House and The Big Bang Theory. In films, we can cite the character of Tony Stark, for example.

Old Spice’s television campaigns and Burger King’s commercials are also sarcastic. Some musicians also use sarcasm in their songs. For example, the band Green Day. Of course, sarcasm also appears in stand-ups. You may have noticed sarcastic humor in Ricky Gervaies’ show.