What is Sarcasm? And How To Stop It
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What is Sarcasm? And How To Stop It

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Everyone has someone in their life—possibly a boss, colleague, friend, or parent who loves sarcastic, passive-aggressive, barbed modes of communication. They love to ‘tease’ and think sarcasm is well-meaning.

What is Sarcasm?

Sarcasm: “The use of irony to mock or convey contempt.” The word “sarcasm” itself has Greek origins, derived from the Greek verb “sarkázein,” which means “to tear flesh” or “to speak bitterly.”

Here are some sarcasm examples:

  • That mustard stain really compliments your blonde hair.
  • Just great! (When someone runs into you)
  • Love this weather. (When the weather is actually horrible)
  • Oh, he’s the best. (Talking about someone who actually annoys you.)

New research says that sarcasm is merely thinly veiled meanness. In fact, one study1https://www.ffri.hr/~ibrdar/komunikacija/seminari/Kruger,%202006%20-%20Teasing.pdf shows that teasers usually believe their words are less hurtful than their victim thinks.

Why Do People Use Sarcasm?

Sarcasm happens for five reasons:

1) Insecurity

Whenever someone around me adopts a sarcastic tone, I immediately try to gauge what they are feeling insecure about. For some, using sarcasm or teasing is a way of avoiding confrontation because they are afraid of asking for what they want.

This fear of direct communication often stems from a concern that their request will be rejected or mocked, leading to a loss of face. Sarcasm becomes a mask to hide behind, a way to keep real feelings and needs concealed.

Sarcasm Example: (Mother to Son who wants him to shave before visiting Grandma) “Wow, Grandma always did love that mountain man look.”

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2) Latent Anger

Sarcasm can also arise from passive-aggressive behavior or as a way to assert dominance. For someone who is angry or upset, but too afraid to bring it up, sarcasm can be a disguised barb.

It’s a method of expressing dissatisfaction without taking the risk of open conflict. This approach allows the person to vent some of their frustration without having to face the consequences of a more direct confrontation.

Sarcasm Example: (Wife to Husband after husband forgot to take out the trash) “Gosh! I love when our house looks and smells so clean.”

3) Social Awkwardness

When people are not good at reading those around them, or are not sure how to carry on a conversation, they will often employ sarcasm hoping it sounds playful or affectionate. This is another kind of insecurity, but in this case, it’s more about feeling out of place in a social setting.

You’ll often hear people who feel disconnected or anxious in social situations use sarcasm as an attempt to lighten the mood or bond. Unfortunately, it tends to have the opposite effect—teasees often interpret sarcastic incidents as malicious and annoying.

Sarcasm Example: (Man at networking event) “This buffet spread looks great! Guess it mirrors this company’s portfolio, huh?”

4) A Desire to Show Superiority

Sometimes, sarcasm is used as a tool to demonstrate intellectual superiority or wit. This can happen in competitive environments, among friends, or even in professional settings where someone wants to stand out as clever or sharp.

By using sarcasm, individuals may feel they are showcasing their intelligence or quick thinking, but it can also create a divide or alienation with those they are communicating with.

Sarcasm Example: (Coworker to another) “Another PowerPoint presentation? You must be aiming for a career in novel writing!”

5) A Way to Minimize Vulnerability

Sarcasm can be a way for people to minimize their vulnerability in a conversation or interaction. When I’m faced with emotional topics or difficult discussions, I’ve noticed that some may use sarcasm as a coping mechanism to detach themselves from the seriousness of the situation.

By making a sarcastic comment, they can distance themselves from the vulnerability of being open and sincere about their feelings or thoughts, creating a barrier that makes them feel safer.

Sarcasm Example: (Person asked about their feelings on a recent breakup) “Me? Heartbroken? No, I always dreamed of being single again at this stage in my life!”

Sarcasm is not only hurtful, but it is also the least genuine mode of communication.

How to Stop Sarcasm

What can you do if you have someone sarcastic in your life? First, you can try sending them this article or posting it on social media and see if they get the hint. If that is a little too direct, next time you are with the teaser, take what I call, the “Genuine Approach”.

Try the Genuine Approach

The Genuine Approach is when you take everything the sarcastic person says as a genuine comment without the sarcastic tone.

For example, I was recently with a friend of a friend who constantly makes sarcastic comments—preventing genuine conversation. I employed the “Genuine Approach” here:

  • Her: “Hey, I saw you on CNN the other day.”
  • Me: “Oh, cool.”
  • Her: [Sarcastic Tone] “Yeah, I could barely recognize you with all of that makeup on.”
  • Me: “Oh wow, really? That’s not good at all. Do you think people in the audience didn’t know it was me? Should I email the make-up artists about it?”

At this, she became flustered and said something along the lines of, “Well, it’s not that I couldn’t recognize you, I mean, it was, well, oh, never mind.” I continued to do this throughout the night, and eventually, she started to have real conversations with us and make genuine comments—which we received warmly and with encouragement.

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Play the Mirror Game

The Mirror Game is a strategy where you reflect the sarcasm back to the person in a playful and non-confrontational manner.

For example, at a family gathering, my cousin, known for his (sometimes not-so-witty) sarcasm, decided to take a jab at my culinary skills:

Him: [Sarcastic Tone] “Wow, I didn’t know they served five-star meals at amateur cook-offs.”

Me: [Playful Tone] “Oh, absolutely! I’m thinking of opening a restaurant in my garage. You’re invited to the grand opening; black-tie event, of course.”

Him: [Caught off guard, chuckling] “Well, as long as you’re the chef, count me in.”

By mirroring his sarcasm with a playful twist, I was able to turn it into a light-hearted moment. If I took it too seriously, it might’ve gone something like this…

Him: [Sarcastic Tone] “Wow, I didn’t know they served five-star meals at amateur cook-offs.”

Me: [Defensively] “What do you mean by that? I worked really hard on this dish. Do you have something against my cooking? Why can’t you just appreciate the effort?”

Him: [Defensively, in return] “Hey, I was just joking! Why are you getting so upset? It’s not like you’re a professional chef or anything.”

That could’ve spoiled the night! Instead, we both ended up laughing, and the conversation moved into more genuine territory. The Mirror Game can be a powerful tool in your conversational toolbox, but it does require a certain level of finesse and timing. Practice makes perfect!

Become a “Sarcasm Translator”

Respond to sarcastic comments by translating them into what the person might actually mean.

Here’s how it went down in a recent encounter a friend of mine had:

  • Coworker: [Sarcastic Tone] “Great job on the presentation. I loved how you put everyone to sleep.”
  • Friend: [Calm Tone] “Sounds like you think I could have made the presentation more engaging. I appreciate your input; do you have any specific suggestions?”

At this point, the coworker’s expression changed immediately, and they actually started to provide some helpful feedback. My friend ended up being grateful for the coworker’s pointers, which could’ve gone pretty bad if my friend took it personally.

By translating sarcasm into a straightforward observation or question, you’re steering the conversation back to a place of authenticity. You’re not only acknowledging the criticism but inviting further discussion. This DOES take some vulnerability, though.

Try it out and see how it changes the dynamics of your interactions!

What Are The Characteristics of Sarcasm?

In a nutshell, sarcasm is a complex and multifaceted form of communication that can be both engaging and risky. It’s a dance of words that requires an understanding of context, knowledge of body language, and good social skills.

Let’s break down its defining characteristics:

  • Tone of Voice: Sarcasm often lurks in a particular intonation that’s hard to miss. It’s a voice dripping with irony, saying something but meaning the exact opposite. If words were a melody, sarcasm would be that unexpected dissonant chord that makes you raise an eyebrow.

Example: “Oh, great! Another flat tire,” said no one ever sincerely.

  • Facial Expressions: The sarcastic face is an art form. A smirk, a raised eyebrow, or a rolling of the eyes, these subtle cues signal that the speaker is engaging in verbal gymnastics.

Example: “I just love sitting in traffic,” she said, her eyes wide with feigned enthusiasm.

  • Underlying Discontent: More often than not, sarcasm hides a kernel of truth disguised in humor or mockery. It can be a tool to vent frustration or criticism without directly addressing the issue.

Example: “I’m so thrilled to be working late again tonight,” might be the disguised cry of an overworked employee.

  • Potential for Miscommunication: Sarcasm can be like dancing on a tightrope. If both parties aren’t in sync, someone might take a tumble. Not everyone “gets” sarcasm, and it can lead to misunderstandings, especially in written communication, where tone can be easily misconstrued.

Example: “Sure, take your time. I have nowhere else to be,” can be seen as accommodating by one person and passive-aggressive by another.

  • Context-Sensitive: Sarcasm changes its colors depending on the situation. What might be funny and accepted among friends can be viewed as unprofessional or even offensive in a different setting.

Example: A sarcastic comment about the boss’s new policy might get laughs in the break room but frosty stares in a staff meeting.

What is a Word That Means Sarcasm?

There are several words that can be used as synonyms for sarcasm. Here are some of them:

  • Irony: the opposite of what’s expected or intended
  • Satire: the use of humor to criticize or mock
  • Ridicule: mocking or teasing in a contemptuous manner
  • Mockery: making fun of or imitating someone or something
  • Cynicism: distrustful or sarcastic attitude or belief
  • Banter: playful and teasing conversation or exchange
  • Taunt: provoking or mocking someone with insulting remarks
  • Sneering: expressing contempt or scorn through facial expressions or tone
  • Sardonicism: mocking or cynical tone or attitude
  • Witticism: a clever or humorous remark
  • Humor: amusing or comical quality or behavior
  • Backhandedness: indirect insult or compliment with a hidden negative meaning

Is Sarcasm Always Negative?

Sarcasm, often seen as a sharp-tongued cousin of humor, has earned a reputation for being cutting or offensive. Yes, it can be used as a verbal weapon disguised as criticism or even bullying. However, sarcasm also has a brighter side. It can be a form of witty banter between friends, lightening the mood in tense situations and adding a touch of cleverness to conversations.

It all comes down to balance, context, and understanding. Used with finesse, sarcasm can be a flavorful twist to communication, but mishandled, it can leave a bitter taste.

How Does Sarcasm Vary Across Cultures?

In some cultures, sarcasm is highly used and favored. Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia have a strong taste for sarcastic humor. It’s a way of bonding, teasing, and showing camaraderie. People here often use sarcasm as a sign of friendship, and those who can dish it out and take it in return are seen as part of the “cool club.”

On the flip side, many cultures view sarcasm as impolite and disrespectful. In countries like Japan or some parts of Asia, directness and sincerity are valued. Sarcasm can be interpreted as rude or mocking, and people may avoid using it altogether. Instead, humor tends to be more subtle, using puns, wordplay, or gentle jokes that don’t risk offense.

Ultimately, some societies value directness and transparency, while others embrace irony and clever wordplay.

Can Sarcasm Enhance Creativity?

Recent scientific studies have shown that sarcasm can also have a positive effect on creativity. In fact, sarcasm can be the highest form of intelligence, according to Harvard researchers2https://www.hbs.edu/ris/Publication%20Files/Huang%20Gino%20Galinsky%20OBHDP%202015_f4efb1e9-b842-4764-a292-ac4836c29cb2.pdf, increasing creativity in both the sarcastic quipper and the person receiving the sarcasm.

Instead of avoiding sarcasm completely in the office, the research3https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-surprising-benefits-of-sarcasm/ suggests sarcasm, used with care and in moderation, can be effectively used and trigger some creative sparks.

Because the brain must think creatively to understand or convey a sarcastic comment, sarcasm may lead to clearer and more creative thinking.

In the end, some lighthearted teasing can be ok, but for the most part, we should encourage genuine interaction in our communication and try to get to the heart of the person we are speaking with. Read more: Be an Expert at Witty Banter…How to Charm With Your Words

1,083 thoughts on “What is Sarcasm? And How To Stop It”

  1. Theres a lot of things in life that suck, but instead of being negative about it you be sarcastic. Sarcasm is a creative way of giving your opinion, and people who can’t read sarcasm are the ones that lash out to it negatively. Honestly being literal all the time is extremely boring and seeing just how far you can go with someone sarcastically is a real art. I do not get offended by sarcasm but often there are times where I don’t know if someone is being sarcastic so I will ask them “was that sarcasm?”. Not that big of a deal. Instead of making assumptions that a person is hurting inside or you need to change the way they communicate try being sarcastic with them. You may find that you have closed yourself off to an adventurous and boundless avenue of communication. Also, stop being butthurt by sarcasm, it’s not always meant to hurt and more often than not the person who uses it the most should never be taken seriously. Sarcasm is an imaginative and hilariously ridiculous experience for those who can suspend their negative attitudes toward it. Sarcasm is so powerful it can build monumental significance out of thin air, and give meaning to the otherwise meaningless. Stay open minded.

    1. Vanessa Van Edwards

      Hi Steve,

      I do think one of my least favorite parts about sarcasm is that I don’t always know when someone is being sarcastic or not and it disrupts the flow of a conversation to say, “Are you being sarcastic?” Ugh the worst. But I understand how it can be used in humor and to build rapport with the right personality types. Thanks for adding!

      V

    2. Who in the world are you to tell the author of this article to stop being butthurt and stay open-minded? It sounds to me that you’re hypocritical because there are sarcastic people who are buthurt and closed-minded.

      If you’re sarcastic all the time, you could end up making many enemies.

      Sometimes negativity is important. If you don’t want lots of enemies, then you better lay off sarcasm by being more sensitive and considerate to other people who are different from you.

  2. Theres a lot of things in life that suck, but instead of being negative about it you be sarcastic. Sarcasm is a creative way of giving your opinion, and people who can’t read sarcasm are the ones that lash out to it negatively. Honestly being literal all the time is extremely boring and seeing just how far you can go with someone sarcastically is a real art. I do not get offended by sarcasm but often there are times where I don’t know if someone is being sarcastic so I will ask them “was that sarcasm?”. Not that big of a deal. Instead of making assumptions that a person is hurting inside or you need to change the way they communicate try being sarcastic with them. You may find that you have closed yourself off to an adventurous and boundless avenue of communication. Also, stop being butthurt by sarcasm, it’s not always meant to hurt and more often than not the person who uses it the most should never be taken seriously. Sarcasm is an imaginative and hilariously ridiculous experience for those who can suspend their negative attitudes toward it. Sarcasm is so powerful it can build monumental significance out of thin air, and give meaning to the otherwise meaningless. Stay open minded.

    1. Vanessa Van Edwards

      Hi Steve,

      I do think one of my least favorite parts about sarcasm is that I don’t always know when someone is being sarcastic or not and it disrupts the flow of a conversation to say, “Are you being sarcastic?” Ugh the worst. But I understand how it can be used in humor and to build rapport with the right personality types. Thanks for adding!

      V

    2. Who in the world are you to tell the author of this article to stop being butthurt and stay open-minded? It sounds to me that you’re hypocritical because there are sarcastic people who are buthurt and closed-minded.

      If you’re sarcastic all the time, you could end up making many enemies.

      Sometimes negativity is important. If you don’t want lots of enemies, then you better lay off sarcasm by being more sensitive and considerate to other people who are different from you.

  3. Theres a lot of things in life that suck, but instead of being negative about it you be sarcastic. Sarcasm is a creative way of giving your opinion, and people who can’t read sarcasm are the ones that lash out to it negatively. Honestly being literal all the time is extremely boring and seeing just how far you can go with someone sarcastically is a real art. I do not get offended by sarcasm but often there are times where I don’t know if someone is being sarcastic so I will ask them “was that sarcasm?”. Not that big of a deal. Instead of making assumptions that a person is hurting inside or you need to change the way they communicate try being sarcastic with them. You may find that you have closed yourself off to an adventurous and boundless avenue of communication. Also, stop being butthurt by sarcasm, it’s not always meant to hurt and more often than not the person who uses it the most should never be taken seriously. Sarcasm is an imaginative and hilariously ridiculous experience for those who can suspend their negative attitudes toward it. Sarcasm is so powerful it can build monumental significance out of thin air, and give meaning to the otherwise meaningless. Stay open minded.

    1. Vanessa Van Edwards

      Hi Steve,

      I do think one of my least favorite parts about sarcasm is that I don’t always know when someone is being sarcastic or not and it disrupts the flow of a conversation to say, “Are you being sarcastic?” Ugh the worst. But I understand how it can be used in humor and to build rapport with the right personality types. Thanks for adding!

      V

    2. Who in the world are you to tell the author of this article to stop being butthurt and stay open-minded? It sounds to me that you’re hypocritical because there are sarcastic people who are buthurt and closed-minded.

      If you’re sarcastic all the time, you could end up making many enemies.

      Sometimes negativity is important. If you don’t want lots of enemies, then you better lay off sarcasm by being more sensitive and considerate to other people who are different from you.

  4. For your information, this gal is right. Sarcasm can hurt people who don’t understand. I mean, you have to know how to be sensitive and apply it. That’s what my dad taught me.

    1. Tiffany Sondergeld

      If people don’t understand you’re being sarcastic or think it’s an inappropriate thing to be sarcastic about, it can be hurtful. It also goes back to communication and knowing the people that are hearing your sarcasm. On the receiving end of sarcasm it’s also important to ask for clarification if you don’t understand.

      1. I have a friend who is very sarcastic. I did tolerate it as light teasing but her comments got meaner (in my opinion) when she was sarcastic, I asked her what she meant and her reply was even worse and hurtful. I really did not like that. What should I do? I don’t think I can tolerate much longer.

        1. @Kacie Could be time to end the friendship. It’s not worth spending time with someone who gets pleasure from being cruel, and who is so insensitive to your honest communication.

          1. How pathetic. The sarcastic sees the complexities in life, while the butt-hurt wants above everything to see life as being as simple as addition and subtraction.

          2. Says the know-it-all prick who doesn’t seem to know how to be considerate to others. It turns out that Tom Sawyer’s right about what he told you.

        2. Peter Z Bugarchich

          Did she offer you some cheese? I’d go well with the “wine” you’ve spilled all over ;-D

          1. You are very crude, aren’t you? I just hope you are not married or in a relationship, becouse in your lifetime you must have hurt a lot of people. You need therapy.

          2. Peter Z Bugarchich

            Get a life, will ya! A bunch of whiny sissies bound to be extinct. Look around you, look at the dangerously hilarious world you live in … perhaps you move to North Korea to practice your political correctness!

          3. I assure you, I in no way regard life “as a joke”. You couldn’t possibly be more wrong about that. So how can I expect anything genuine from your tender widdle sensibilities? You PLAY at being genuine. Homie don’t play.

            I recognize that life has a “cosmic joke” aspect to it – and you do not. But I have NEVER regarded life itself as a “joke”.

            But even if it was, SO WHAT?

          4. If you think that life’s a joke, how about you stop being alive? Better yet, quit making other people conform to your way of thinking.

          5. Why don’t you get a life instead, you macho asshole?! You think that everyone should be just like you and prance around being all “Ooh, look at me. I’m so tough that I think everyone should be either be exactly like me or die.” Pathetic.

            You know what else? I find you hypocritical in that you suggested that your enemies move to North Korea and practice political correctness when you’re doing the same thing that that place and that ideal do.

          6. William Burke

            Please grow up before you’re dead and in your grave. You owe at least that much to yourself, wouldn’t you agree?

          7. sarcastic people tend to be unsentimental prats and you have proved that here once again. people who are sarcastic tend to be disgustingly elitist too, and your obviously both guilty of that. Telling people to get a life, and grow up? Because they would rather be sincere to people on the internet? The internet has made you a child, Ha, telling people to grow up. You throw insults around like a 10 year old but in real life I bet you would not be so crass.

          8. “Crass”? You think THAT’S “crass”? It didn’t even rise to the level of an insult! I’m so sorry your ass is made of issue paper. This is your last chance to BE A MAN, goddammit!

            Unless you’ve chosen otherwise, of course. That choice is final, you know. It’s a closing off to further opportunities of manhood.

            But here I am, talking to you as if you’re not a weenie pre-adolescent. I beg your pardon, it was a lapse.
            GFY!

          9. the difference between me and you is that I view the universe with a purpose, you view it as a joke. That is the essence of the divide between sarcasm and sincerity. A weenie? Be a man? No, i’ll pass I already said all I had to say.

          10. I couldn’t have posted all that better myself. Thank you for telling him that. And I mean it.

          11. He says sarcastically. You see pal, only sarcastic people think sarcasm is appropriate. Douche Bag.

          12. Stephanie Turner Wilkinson

            Apparently Vladimir is not sarcastic at all, he is just out an out mean. More like an internet troll.

          13. bro, seriously, keep being you. I see you sometimes commenting and it makes me happy, knowing that there are well balanced, intelligent, and common sense people out there who aren’t retards or sheeple.

            Peace.

          14. I’m with you on all that ,except for the “keep being you” part. I mean, what right to does he have in making other people think, act, and be just like him? They don’t have to if they don’t want to.

    2. ABSOLUTELY. It’s a form of contempt and anger, clothed in comedy.
      I do agree with him that Dr. Phil is a quack and a self-aggrandizing angry person himself.

      1. There’s no anger in sarcasm. I grant there may occasionally be contempt. Sarcasm is a wet towel thrown in the face of hopeless naivitè.

    3. William Burke

      How in the hell are they “hurt” if they don’t understand sarcasm? You sarcasm-deprived people need a support group – of clueless people just like yourselves.

      It’s not our problem that you grew up without any social armoring. Grow a set or go away.

      1. Vladimir Putin

        Amen brother … I hope those clueless and socially retarded people never get to wear uniform or go to war. If they do, we’re doomed!

    4. You have to learn that a person is ultimately responsible for their own happiness. If you have to feed off of the people around you to stay positive, you have personal issues you need to resolve with yourself.

    5. He should have taught you to read and do research on issues instead of injecting your opinion into the matter. Especially when it is quite obvious you are not too familiar with it in the first place.

  5. For your information, this gal is right. Sarcasm can hurt people who don’t understand. I mean, you have to know how to be sensitive and apply it. That’s what my dad taught me.

    1. Tiffany Sondergeld

      If people don’t understand you’re being sarcastic or think it’s an inappropriate thing to be sarcastic about, it can be hurtful. It also goes back to communication and knowing the people that are hearing your sarcasm. On the receiving end of sarcasm it’s also important to ask for clarification if you don’t understand.

      1. I have a friend who is very sarcastic. I did tolerate it as light teasing but her comments got meaner (in my opinion) when she was sarcastic, I asked her what she meant and her reply was even worse and hurtful. I really did not like that. What should I do? I don’t think I can tolerate much longer.

        1. @Kacie Could be time to end the friendship. It’s not worth spending time with someone who gets pleasure from being cruel, and who is so insensitive to your honest communication.

          1. How pathetic. The sarcastic sees the complexities in life, while the butt-hurt wants above everything to see life as being as simple as addition and subtraction.

          2. Says the know-it-all prick who doesn’t seem to know how to be considerate to others. It turns out that Tom Sawyer’s right about what he told you.

        2. Peter Z Bugarchich

          Did she offer you some cheese? I’d go well with the “wine” you’ve spilled all over ;-D

          1. You are very crude, aren’t you? I just hope you are not married or in a relationship, becouse in your lifetime you must have hurt a lot of people. You need therapy.

          2. Peter Z Bugarchich

            Get a life, will ya! A bunch of whiny sissies bound to be extinct. Look around you, look at the dangerously hilarious world you live in … perhaps you move to North Korea to practice your political correctness!

          3. I assure you, I in no way regard life “as a joke”. You couldn’t possibly be more wrong about that. So how can I expect anything genuine from your tender widdle sensibilities? You PLAY at being genuine. Homie don’t play.

            I recognize that life has a “cosmic joke” aspect to it – and you do not. But I have NEVER regarded life itself as a “joke”.

            But even if it was, SO WHAT?

          4. If you think that life’s a joke, how about you stop being alive? Better yet, quit making other people conform to your way of thinking.

          5. Why don’t you get a life instead, you macho asshole?! You think that everyone should be just like you and prance around being all “Ooh, look at me. I’m so tough that I think everyone should be either be exactly like me or die.” Pathetic.

            You know what else? I find you hypocritical in that you suggested that your enemies move to North Korea and practice political correctness when you’re doing the same thing that that place and that ideal do.

          6. William Burke

            Please grow up before you’re dead and in your grave. You owe at least that much to yourself, wouldn’t you agree?

          7. sarcastic people tend to be unsentimental prats and you have proved that here once again. people who are sarcastic tend to be disgustingly elitist too, and your obviously both guilty of that. Telling people to get a life, and grow up? Because they would rather be sincere to people on the internet? The internet has made you a child, Ha, telling people to grow up. You throw insults around like a 10 year old but in real life I bet you would not be so crass.

          8. “Crass”? You think THAT’S “crass”? It didn’t even rise to the level of an insult! I’m so sorry your ass is made of issue paper. This is your last chance to BE A MAN, goddammit!

            Unless you’ve chosen otherwise, of course. That choice is final, you know. It’s a closing off to further opportunities of manhood.

            But here I am, talking to you as if you’re not a weenie pre-adolescent. I beg your pardon, it was a lapse.
            GFY!

          9. the difference between me and you is that I view the universe with a purpose, you view it as a joke. That is the essence of the divide between sarcasm and sincerity. A weenie? Be a man? No, i’ll pass I already said all I had to say.

          10. I couldn’t have posted all that better myself. Thank you for telling him that. And I mean it.

          11. He says sarcastically. You see pal, only sarcastic people think sarcasm is appropriate. Douche Bag.

          12. Stephanie Turner Wilkinson

            Apparently Vladimir is not sarcastic at all, he is just out an out mean. More like an internet troll.

          13. bro, seriously, keep being you. I see you sometimes commenting and it makes me happy, knowing that there are well balanced, intelligent, and common sense people out there who aren’t retards or sheeple.

            Peace.

          14. I’m with you on all that ,except for the “keep being you” part. I mean, what right to does he have in making other people think, act, and be just like him? They don’t have to if they don’t want to.

    2. ABSOLUTELY. It’s a form of contempt and anger, clothed in comedy.
      I do agree with him that Dr. Phil is a quack and a self-aggrandizing angry person himself.

      1. There’s no anger in sarcasm. I grant there may occasionally be contempt. Sarcasm is a wet towel thrown in the face of hopeless naivitè.

    3. William Burke

      How in the hell are they “hurt” if they don’t understand sarcasm? You sarcasm-deprived people need a support group – of clueless people just like yourselves.

      It’s not our problem that you grew up without any social armoring. Grow a set or go away.

      1. Vladimir Putin

        Amen brother … I hope those clueless and socially retarded people never get to wear uniform or go to war. If they do, we’re doomed!

    4. You have to learn that a person is ultimately responsible for their own happiness. If you have to feed off of the people around you to stay positive, you have personal issues you need to resolve with yourself.

    5. He should have taught you to read and do research on issues instead of injecting your opinion into the matter. Especially when it is quite obvious you are not too familiar with it in the first place.

  6. For your information, this gal is right. Sarcasm can hurt people who don’t understand. I mean, you have to know how to be sensitive and apply it. That’s what my dad taught me.

    1. Tiffany Sondergeld

      If people don’t understand you’re being sarcastic or think it’s an inappropriate thing to be sarcastic about, it can be hurtful. It also goes back to communication and knowing the people that are hearing your sarcasm. On the receiving end of sarcasm it’s also important to ask for clarification if you don’t understand.

      1. I have a friend who is very sarcastic. I did tolerate it as light teasing but her comments got meaner (in my opinion) when she was sarcastic, I asked her what she meant and her reply was even worse and hurtful. I really did not like that. What should I do? I don’t think I can tolerate much longer.

        1. @Kacie Could be time to end the friendship. It’s not worth spending time with someone who gets pleasure from being cruel, and who is so insensitive to your honest communication.

          1. How pathetic. The sarcastic sees the complexities in life, while the butt-hurt wants above everything to see life as being as simple as addition and subtraction.

          2. Says the know-it-all prick who doesn’t seem to know how to be considerate to others. It turns out that Tom Sawyer’s right about what he told you.

        2. Peter Z Bugarchich

          Did she offer you some cheese? I’d go well with the “wine” you’ve spilled all over ;-D

          1. You are very crude, aren’t you? I just hope you are not married or in a relationship, becouse in your lifetime you must have hurt a lot of people. You need therapy.

          2. Peter Z Bugarchich

            Get a life, will ya! A bunch of whiny sissies bound to be extinct. Look around you, look at the dangerously hilarious world you live in … perhaps you move to North Korea to practice your political correctness!

          3. I assure you, I in no way regard life “as a joke”. You couldn’t possibly be more wrong about that. So how can I expect anything genuine from your tender widdle sensibilities? You PLAY at being genuine. Homie don’t play.

            I recognize that life has a “cosmic joke” aspect to it – and you do not. But I have NEVER regarded life itself as a “joke”.

            But even if it was, SO WHAT?

          4. If you think that life’s a joke, how about you stop being alive? Better yet, quit making other people conform to your way of thinking.

          5. Why don’t you get a life instead, you macho asshole?! You think that everyone should be just like you and prance around being all “Ooh, look at me. I’m so tough that I think everyone should be either be exactly like me or die.” Pathetic.

            You know what else? I find you hypocritical in that you suggested that your enemies move to North Korea and practice political correctness when you’re doing the same thing that that place and that ideal do.

          6. William Burke

            Please grow up before you’re dead and in your grave. You owe at least that much to yourself, wouldn’t you agree?

          7. sarcastic people tend to be unsentimental prats and you have proved that here once again. people who are sarcastic tend to be disgustingly elitist too, and your obviously both guilty of that. Telling people to get a life, and grow up? Because they would rather be sincere to people on the internet? The internet has made you a child, Ha, telling people to grow up. You throw insults around like a 10 year old but in real life I bet you would not be so crass.

          8. “Crass”? You think THAT’S “crass”? It didn’t even rise to the level of an insult! I’m so sorry your ass is made of issue paper. This is your last chance to BE A MAN, goddammit!

            Unless you’ve chosen otherwise, of course. That choice is final, you know. It’s a closing off to further opportunities of manhood.

            But here I am, talking to you as if you’re not a weenie pre-adolescent. I beg your pardon, it was a lapse.
            GFY!

          9. the difference between me and you is that I view the universe with a purpose, you view it as a joke. That is the essence of the divide between sarcasm and sincerity. A weenie? Be a man? No, i’ll pass I already said all I had to say.

          10. I couldn’t have posted all that better myself. Thank you for telling him that. And I mean it.

          11. He says sarcastically. You see pal, only sarcastic people think sarcasm is appropriate. Douche Bag.

          12. Stephanie Turner Wilkinson

            Apparently Vladimir is not sarcastic at all, he is just out an out mean. More like an internet troll.

          13. bro, seriously, keep being you. I see you sometimes commenting and it makes me happy, knowing that there are well balanced, intelligent, and common sense people out there who aren’t retards or sheeple.

            Peace.

          14. I’m with you on all that ,except for the “keep being you” part. I mean, what right to does he have in making other people think, act, and be just like him? They don’t have to if they don’t want to.

    2. ABSOLUTELY. It’s a form of contempt and anger, clothed in comedy.
      I do agree with him that Dr. Phil is a quack and a self-aggrandizing angry person himself.

      1. There’s no anger in sarcasm. I grant there may occasionally be contempt. Sarcasm is a wet towel thrown in the face of hopeless naivitè.

    3. William Burke

      How in the hell are they “hurt” if they don’t understand sarcasm? You sarcasm-deprived people need a support group – of clueless people just like yourselves.

      It’s not our problem that you grew up without any social armoring. Grow a set or go away.

      1. Vladimir Putin

        Amen brother … I hope those clueless and socially retarded people never get to wear uniform or go to war. If they do, we’re doomed!

    4. You have to learn that a person is ultimately responsible for their own happiness. If you have to feed off of the people around you to stay positive, you have personal issues you need to resolve with yourself.

    5. He should have taught you to read and do research on issues instead of injecting your opinion into the matter. Especially when it is quite obvious you are not too familiar with it in the first place.

    1. are you being sarcastic? for your information, he isn’t those things. instead, he’s a macho dickwipe who wants everyone to conform to his narrow world-view.

    1. are you being sarcastic? for your information, he isn’t those things. instead, he’s a macho dickwipe who wants everyone to conform to his narrow world-view.

    1. are you being sarcastic? for your information, he isn’t those things. instead, he’s a macho dickwipe who wants everyone to conform to his narrow world-view.

  7. Vanessa, can you fill in this following oversight? In the last sentence of the first paragraph you wrote, “In fact, a recent study by shows that teasers usually….”. By who?
    I agree with much of what you’re saying here. I have actually had conversations with many of my friends who use sarcasm, that the use of sarcasm is a sign of deeply hidden pain and a passive aggressive approach to dealing with issues they do not have the confidence to approach head on. Many people who habitually use sarcasm as a prefered method of communication are very defensive about this analogy. Perhaps it is just too much truth for them to handle.

    1. I agree with Ted Friedli. I believe sarcasm is a sign of a passive aggressive person who has pain and also does not have what it takes to be direct. In one experience I was the recipient of this type of behaviour. I was ridiculed, devalued and mocked with the use of sarcasm and unkindness. When I balked at this toxic behaviour and fled from it, I was told I was ‘too sensitive’ and further ridiculed and devalued. I believe this type of behaviour is the result of jealousy also. When a person cannot deal with whatever makes them jealous about another person, then attack is the easiest and most denigrating form of ‘getting even’ and a way to make the perpetrator feel better. But does it make the perpetrator feel better? I know one thing: Toxic people are not for me! I pride myself in being up front, polite, kind, and as asset to whomever is my friend. I do not want to hurt others and if this seems too pie-in-the-sky and unattainable – well that is how it is!

      1. Because of that comment, I place you on my list of this article’s commenters who I respect and like.

      2. Aww that’s adorable. I wish everyone could stop using sarcasm as a way to tease others. It’s just too risky.

  8. Vanessa, can you fill in this following oversight? In the last sentence of the first paragraph you wrote, “In fact, a recent study by shows that teasers usually….”. By who?
    I agree with much of what you’re saying here. I have actually had conversations with many of my friends who use sarcasm, that the use of sarcasm is a sign of deeply hidden pain and a passive aggressive approach to dealing with issues they do not have the confidence to approach head on. Many people who habitually use sarcasm as a prefered method of communication are very defensive about this analogy. Perhaps it is just too much truth for them to handle.

    1. I agree with Ted Friedli. I believe sarcasm is a sign of a passive aggressive person who has pain and also does not have what it takes to be direct. In one experience I was the recipient of this type of behaviour. I was ridiculed, devalued and mocked with the use of sarcasm and unkindness. When I balked at this toxic behaviour and fled from it, I was told I was ‘too sensitive’ and further ridiculed and devalued. I believe this type of behaviour is the result of jealousy also. When a person cannot deal with whatever makes them jealous about another person, then attack is the easiest and most denigrating form of ‘getting even’ and a way to make the perpetrator feel better. But does it make the perpetrator feel better? I know one thing: Toxic people are not for me! I pride myself in being up front, polite, kind, and as asset to whomever is my friend. I do not want to hurt others and if this seems too pie-in-the-sky and unattainable – well that is how it is!

      1. Because of that comment, I place you on my list of this article’s commenters who I respect and like.

      2. Aww that’s adorable. I wish everyone could stop using sarcasm as a way to tease others. It’s just too risky.

  9. Vanessa, can you fill in this following oversight? In the last sentence of the first paragraph you wrote, “In fact, a recent study by shows that teasers usually….”. By who?
    I agree with much of what you’re saying here. I have actually had conversations with many of my friends who use sarcasm, that the use of sarcasm is a sign of deeply hidden pain and a passive aggressive approach to dealing with issues they do not have the confidence to approach head on. Many people who habitually use sarcasm as a prefered method of communication are very defensive about this analogy. Perhaps it is just too much truth for them to handle.

    1. I agree with Ted Friedli. I believe sarcasm is a sign of a passive aggressive person who has pain and also does not have what it takes to be direct. In one experience I was the recipient of this type of behaviour. I was ridiculed, devalued and mocked with the use of sarcasm and unkindness. When I balked at this toxic behaviour and fled from it, I was told I was ‘too sensitive’ and further ridiculed and devalued. I believe this type of behaviour is the result of jealousy also. When a person cannot deal with whatever makes them jealous about another person, then attack is the easiest and most denigrating form of ‘getting even’ and a way to make the perpetrator feel better. But does it make the perpetrator feel better? I know one thing: Toxic people are not for me! I pride myself in being up front, polite, kind, and as asset to whomever is my friend. I do not want to hurt others and if this seems too pie-in-the-sky and unattainable – well that is how it is!

      1. Because of that comment, I place you on my list of this article’s commenters who I respect and like.

      2. Aww that’s adorable. I wish everyone could stop using sarcasm as a way to tease others. It’s just too risky.

  10. I used to have a best friend who was constantly sarcastic. He never smiled but smirked. I put up with it for about ten years. I noticed my self esteem had slowly dipped since knowing him.

    We used to laugh and have a great time sometimes and had a lot in common, but the sarcasm left a bitter after taste. Something in me snapped eventually and I chose the littlest excuse to end my friendship with him. My self esteem and feeling of self worth soared in the following years and I realised my friendship with him was toxic. I avoid making friends with sarcastic people now.

    1. I’m glad that you gave up on sarcastic people, whom I loathe as much as you. If anyone’s sarcastic to me in real life, I’d be openly mean to him or her.

        1. They’re not horrible people. They just need a little attitude adjustment. The to tell the truth you were Sarcastic In the way you worded that!!!!?

      1. While I don’t deny the issues mentioned in the article are common reasons people use sarcasm, sometimes it’s as simple as someone just wanting to play around. People are so easy to offend. If you cant handle sarcasm from someone, that probably speaks more to your inability to cope with real personal issues.

        1. If you can’t handle people who can’t handle sarcasm, that speaks more to you inability to be tactful to others. For your information, you can’t force any people to cope with any situation. Whether they can cope or not is up to them.

          1. I didn’t say anything about forcing people to cope. Nor did I say that I couldn’t handle stuck-up people. What I did say was, there is a time when anger is a perfectly reasonable response to sarcasm. Other times it’s really inappropriate to get mad, especially when it was clearly not meant to be offensive. And yes, those individuals that are unable to differentiate (you), usually does have some kind of emotional issue they haven’t properly dealt with. Do some research if you think I’m lying.

          2. Can I ask you how you decide that it’s inappropriate to get mad? In my experience sarcasm has almost always been a way for another person to make you look stupid. You are absolutely trapped in that situation and they know it. They say something sarcastic that usually serves the purpose of asserting dominance and if you say anything to them they can just tell you you’re being uptight or my favorite, “can’t take a joke can you?” Those people then usually go out of their way to make you their target at that point. Lighthearted jokes are one thing, but I find people who make other people look stupid and then decide when they can’t get mad at the joker to be the WORST sort of people. Again, I find there is a sense of deviousness in your comment that “other times it’s really inappropriate to get mad” because also in my experience, sarcasm is a form of passive aggressiveness. I don’t believe so many people are inept at social cues that they don’t know someone is joking. I know a joke when I hear it, and most people have wrapped their rude ass comments in the cloak of “if you get mad you look uptight so I can get away with anything.” Again, you can probably tell from my comment I have issues with sarcastic people, so maybe I haven’t met the pervasive lighthearted sarcastic jokester that you speak of.

    2. Just so you know that I don’t loathe you because you and I hate sarcastic people. You see? Anyone who’s against sarcastic people are cool in my book.

        1. You told me to read read first when you don’t what I mean by book? You’re one to talk. FYI, I mean book as in opinion. Sounds to me that you’re the one who needs to read.

          1. Since I explained it to you already. I did use some words you might not understand. Maybe that’s why you couldn’t catch on to that.

      1. You really need to relax. Get over yourself. Walk around clenched up like that, something might pop.

        1. You need to lay off on telling people other people to relax. I only relax whenever I choose to.

          And for your information ,I don’t walk around all clenched up like that.

          If you ask me, being sarcastic to people at the wrong time will cause you make enemies with them.

          1. You need to lay off telling people not to be sarcastic. I agree with your last sentence though. I’ve tried to explain that to you earlier, sarcasm is not a bad thing if used in the right situations.

          2. So as long as you don’t mind that I pull your underwear over you head than we should be fine right? You need to lay off telling people not to bully. It’s the same thing. Words do hurt.

        2. Isn’t that the go to of mean sarcastic people? “I’m only joking. You are too sensitive.” Bullshit! It’s a coward’s way of bullying. It’s people like you that are too cowardly to be honest and upfront with people. Directed sarcasm is like hiding while throwing rocks when the victim is most vulnerable. That doesn’t sound like something friends do to each other. More like enemies. I too lost a friend due to years of directed sarcasm. I am better without him, and now won’t put up with it.

    3. Pretty much exactly what I go through with someone who is very close to me. My self esteem really has plummeted and she thinks it’s okay to make these types of comments and in fact she’s even proud at her use of sarcasm seeing herself as being witty. If only she knew how much it hurts and how it makes me feel. It’s Like no… saying you’re joking or stating that you’re merely being sarcastic doesn’t make it hurt any less and like this article points out what an ineffective way of communication. It pretty much sets the tone and makes the communication worthless. God I wish I could show her this without starting a war.

      1. Sadly you need to let this person go. If u have voiced it to her more then once, and she continues to do it, then you need to value & love yourself enough, to know that u don’t deserve to be treated like this. Do not allow this person to continue to doing this to you, hurt u and make you feel bad. Love yourself enough to know when its time to walk away from someone or a relationship & let them go with peace & love

      2. Your self esteem should only depend on how you view yourself. Relying on someone else to make you feel good about yourself is an obvious sign self-esteem issues were present before that person started their nonsense.

          1. Not over some self-esteem issue. Like I said that is personal. I guess your lucky enough to never have lived in a place where if you didn’t stand-up for yourself everyone would run over you.

        1. I couldn’t agree more. Nowadays it seems everyone is easily upset or offended. If a sarcastic comment wreaks that much emotional distress on someone then it’s obvious that there were preexisting issues there in the first place. Personally I don’t mind sarcasm one bit even if it’s directed at me. I would wager that 90% of the time most sarcasm is simply someone kidding around. As for the remaining 10% who cares? The human psyche shouldn’t be so easily torn asunder by way of a few sarcastic cutting remarks.

      1. Excuse me? You told me to relax but suggested to him or her that he or she beat someone’s ass?! Now who’s the one who should relax?

  11. I used to have a best friend who was constantly sarcastic. He never smiled but smirked. I put up with it for about ten years. I noticed my self esteem had slowly dipped since knowing him.

    We used to laugh and have a great time sometimes and had a lot in common, but the sarcasm left a bitter after taste. Something in me snapped eventually and I chose the littlest excuse to end my friendship with him. My self esteem and feeling of self worth soared in the following years and I realised my friendship with him was toxic. I avoid making friends with sarcastic people now.

    1. I’m glad that you gave up on sarcastic people, whom I loathe as much as you. If anyone’s sarcastic to me in real life, I’d be openly mean to him or her.

        1. They’re not horrible people. They just need a little attitude adjustment. The to tell the truth you were Sarcastic In the way you worded that!!!!?

      1. While I don’t deny the issues mentioned in the article are common reasons people use sarcasm, sometimes it’s as simple as someone just wanting to play around. People are so easy to offend. If you cant handle sarcasm from someone, that probably speaks more to your inability to cope with real personal issues.

        1. If you can’t handle people who can’t handle sarcasm, that speaks more to you inability to be tactful to others. For your information, you can’t force any people to cope with any situation. Whether they can cope or not is up to them.

          1. I didn’t say anything about forcing people to cope. Nor did I say that I couldn’t handle stuck-up people. What I did say was, there is a time when anger is a perfectly reasonable response to sarcasm. Other times it’s really inappropriate to get mad, especially when it was clearly not meant to be offensive. And yes, those individuals that are unable to differentiate (you), usually does have some kind of emotional issue they haven’t properly dealt with. Do some research if you think I’m lying.

          2. Can I ask you how you decide that it’s inappropriate to get mad? In my experience sarcasm has almost always been a way for another person to make you look stupid. You are absolutely trapped in that situation and they know it. They say something sarcastic that usually serves the purpose of asserting dominance and if you say anything to them they can just tell you you’re being uptight or my favorite, “can’t take a joke can you?” Those people then usually go out of their way to make you their target at that point. Lighthearted jokes are one thing, but I find people who make other people look stupid and then decide when they can’t get mad at the joker to be the WORST sort of people. Again, I find there is a sense of deviousness in your comment that “other times it’s really inappropriate to get mad” because also in my experience, sarcasm is a form of passive aggressiveness. I don’t believe so many people are inept at social cues that they don’t know someone is joking. I know a joke when I hear it, and most people have wrapped their rude ass comments in the cloak of “if you get mad you look uptight so I can get away with anything.” Again, you can probably tell from my comment I have issues with sarcastic people, so maybe I haven’t met the pervasive lighthearted sarcastic jokester that you speak of.

    2. Just so you know that I don’t loathe you because you and I hate sarcastic people. You see? Anyone who’s against sarcastic people are cool in my book.

        1. You told me to read read first when you don’t what I mean by book? You’re one to talk. FYI, I mean book as in opinion. Sounds to me that you’re the one who needs to read.

          1. Since I explained it to you already. I did use some words you might not understand. Maybe that’s why you couldn’t catch on to that.

      1. You really need to relax. Get over yourself. Walk around clenched up like that, something might pop.

        1. You need to lay off on telling people other people to relax. I only relax whenever I choose to.

          And for your information ,I don’t walk around all clenched up like that.

          If you ask me, being sarcastic to people at the wrong time will cause you make enemies with them.

          1. You need to lay off telling people not to be sarcastic. I agree with your last sentence though. I’ve tried to explain that to you earlier, sarcasm is not a bad thing if used in the right situations.

          2. So as long as you don’t mind that I pull your underwear over you head than we should be fine right? You need to lay off telling people not to bully. It’s the same thing. Words do hurt.

        2. Isn’t that the go to of mean sarcastic people? “I’m only joking. You are too sensitive.” Bullshit! It’s a coward’s way of bullying. It’s people like you that are too cowardly to be honest and upfront with people. Directed sarcasm is like hiding while throwing rocks when the victim is most vulnerable. That doesn’t sound like something friends do to each other. More like enemies. I too lost a friend due to years of directed sarcasm. I am better without him, and now won’t put up with it.

    3. Pretty much exactly what I go through with someone who is very close to me. My self esteem really has plummeted and she thinks it’s okay to make these types of comments and in fact she’s even proud at her use of sarcasm seeing herself as being witty. If only she knew how much it hurts and how it makes me feel. It’s Like no… saying you’re joking or stating that you’re merely being sarcastic doesn’t make it hurt any less and like this article points out what an ineffective way of communication. It pretty much sets the tone and makes the communication worthless. God I wish I could show her this without starting a war.

      1. Sadly you need to let this person go. If u have voiced it to her more then once, and she continues to do it, then you need to value & love yourself enough, to know that u don’t deserve to be treated like this. Do not allow this person to continue to doing this to you, hurt u and make you feel bad. Love yourself enough to know when its time to walk away from someone or a relationship & let them go with peace & love

      2. Your self esteem should only depend on how you view yourself. Relying on someone else to make you feel good about yourself is an obvious sign self-esteem issues were present before that person started their nonsense.

          1. Not over some self-esteem issue. Like I said that is personal. I guess your lucky enough to never have lived in a place where if you didn’t stand-up for yourself everyone would run over you.

        1. I couldn’t agree more. Nowadays it seems everyone is easily upset or offended. If a sarcastic comment wreaks that much emotional distress on someone then it’s obvious that there were preexisting issues there in the first place. Personally I don’t mind sarcasm one bit even if it’s directed at me. I would wager that 90% of the time most sarcasm is simply someone kidding around. As for the remaining 10% who cares? The human psyche shouldn’t be so easily torn asunder by way of a few sarcastic cutting remarks.

      1. Excuse me? You told me to relax but suggested to him or her that he or she beat someone’s ass?! Now who’s the one who should relax?

  12. I used to have a best friend who was constantly sarcastic. He never smiled but smirked. I put up with it for about ten years. I noticed my self esteem had slowly dipped since knowing him.

    We used to laugh and have a great time sometimes and had a lot in common, but the sarcasm left a bitter after taste. Something in me snapped eventually and I chose the littlest excuse to end my friendship with him. My self esteem and feeling of self worth soared in the following years and I realised my friendship with him was toxic. I avoid making friends with sarcastic people now.

    1. I’m glad that you gave up on sarcastic people, whom I loathe as much as you. If anyone’s sarcastic to me in real life, I’d be openly mean to him or her.

        1. They’re not horrible people. They just need a little attitude adjustment. The to tell the truth you were Sarcastic In the way you worded that!!!!?

      1. While I don’t deny the issues mentioned in the article are common reasons people use sarcasm, sometimes it’s as simple as someone just wanting to play around. People are so easy to offend. If you cant handle sarcasm from someone, that probably speaks more to your inability to cope with real personal issues.

        1. If you can’t handle people who can’t handle sarcasm, that speaks more to you inability to be tactful to others. For your information, you can’t force any people to cope with any situation. Whether they can cope or not is up to them.

          1. I didn’t say anything about forcing people to cope. Nor did I say that I couldn’t handle stuck-up people. What I did say was, there is a time when anger is a perfectly reasonable response to sarcasm. Other times it’s really inappropriate to get mad, especially when it was clearly not meant to be offensive. And yes, those individuals that are unable to differentiate (you), usually does have some kind of emotional issue they haven’t properly dealt with. Do some research if you think I’m lying.

          2. Can I ask you how you decide that it’s inappropriate to get mad? In my experience sarcasm has almost always been a way for another person to make you look stupid. You are absolutely trapped in that situation and they know it. They say something sarcastic that usually serves the purpose of asserting dominance and if you say anything to them they can just tell you you’re being uptight or my favorite, “can’t take a joke can you?” Those people then usually go out of their way to make you their target at that point. Lighthearted jokes are one thing, but I find people who make other people look stupid and then decide when they can’t get mad at the joker to be the WORST sort of people. Again, I find there is a sense of deviousness in your comment that “other times it’s really inappropriate to get mad” because also in my experience, sarcasm is a form of passive aggressiveness. I don’t believe so many people are inept at social cues that they don’t know someone is joking. I know a joke when I hear it, and most people have wrapped their rude ass comments in the cloak of “if you get mad you look uptight so I can get away with anything.” Again, you can probably tell from my comment I have issues with sarcastic people, so maybe I haven’t met the pervasive lighthearted sarcastic jokester that you speak of.

    2. Just so you know that I don’t loathe you because you and I hate sarcastic people. You see? Anyone who’s against sarcastic people are cool in my book.

        1. You told me to read read first when you don’t what I mean by book? You’re one to talk. FYI, I mean book as in opinion. Sounds to me that you’re the one who needs to read.

          1. Since I explained it to you already. I did use some words you might not understand. Maybe that’s why you couldn’t catch on to that.

      1. You really need to relax. Get over yourself. Walk around clenched up like that, something might pop.

        1. You need to lay off on telling people other people to relax. I only relax whenever I choose to.

          And for your information ,I don’t walk around all clenched up like that.

          If you ask me, being sarcastic to people at the wrong time will cause you make enemies with them.

          1. You need to lay off telling people not to be sarcastic. I agree with your last sentence though. I’ve tried to explain that to you earlier, sarcasm is not a bad thing if used in the right situations.

          2. So as long as you don’t mind that I pull your underwear over you head than we should be fine right? You need to lay off telling people not to bully. It’s the same thing. Words do hurt.

        2. Isn’t that the go to of mean sarcastic people? “I’m only joking. You are too sensitive.” Bullshit! It’s a coward’s way of bullying. It’s people like you that are too cowardly to be honest and upfront with people. Directed sarcasm is like hiding while throwing rocks when the victim is most vulnerable. That doesn’t sound like something friends do to each other. More like enemies. I too lost a friend due to years of directed sarcasm. I am better without him, and now won’t put up with it.

    3. Pretty much exactly what I go through with someone who is very close to me. My self esteem really has plummeted and she thinks it’s okay to make these types of comments and in fact she’s even proud at her use of sarcasm seeing herself as being witty. If only she knew how much it hurts and how it makes me feel. It’s Like no… saying you’re joking or stating that you’re merely being sarcastic doesn’t make it hurt any less and like this article points out what an ineffective way of communication. It pretty much sets the tone and makes the communication worthless. God I wish I could show her this without starting a war.

      1. Sadly you need to let this person go. If u have voiced it to her more then once, and she continues to do it, then you need to value & love yourself enough, to know that u don’t deserve to be treated like this. Do not allow this person to continue to doing this to you, hurt u and make you feel bad. Love yourself enough to know when its time to walk away from someone or a relationship & let them go with peace & love

      2. Your self esteem should only depend on how you view yourself. Relying on someone else to make you feel good about yourself is an obvious sign self-esteem issues were present before that person started their nonsense.

          1. Not over some self-esteem issue. Like I said that is personal. I guess your lucky enough to never have lived in a place where if you didn’t stand-up for yourself everyone would run over you.

        1. I couldn’t agree more. Nowadays it seems everyone is easily upset or offended. If a sarcastic comment wreaks that much emotional distress on someone then it’s obvious that there were preexisting issues there in the first place. Personally I don’t mind sarcasm one bit even if it’s directed at me. I would wager that 90% of the time most sarcasm is simply someone kidding around. As for the remaining 10% who cares? The human psyche shouldn’t be so easily torn asunder by way of a few sarcastic cutting remarks.

      1. Excuse me? You told me to relax but suggested to him or her that he or she beat someone’s ass?! Now who’s the one who should relax?

  13. Sarcasm does not have to be about or directed at another person. It can be applied to almost any situation. The type of sarcasm you are referring to can indeed be a form of mocking but whether it can be viewed as truly offensive or not entirely depends on the context in which it is spoken as well as the intent. I am not ashamed to admit that I use sarcasm on a daily basis, in fact, if I am opening my mouth, I am probably being sarcastic. Even my thoughts are sarcastic. That does not mean I am incapable of being sensitive and only set out to mock other people. I tend to mock myself more than others, there’s the insecurity you mentioned. . . and there I detect a tiny hint of sarcasm. Did it hurt anyone? I doubt it. So what we have learned? Kids, play nicely! Don’t pick on your friends, and if you do, just be blatant, it saves a lot of trouble!

    1. I want to say that i thought the same way as you, for many years– especially the eighties. I thought– I turn it on myself, my friends don’t mind, they know I would never hurt them, I can be sensitive when it’s appropriate…

      eventually i realised that my self-assessment was completely out of touch with what my friends were seeing, and that I had a repustation for being insensitive, bullying, and egotistic.

      Ask your friends, is my advice. But– if you’ve beendoing this for a longtime, be aware that you might not get an honest reaction for a while. You may have taught them not to trust you.

      1. Hi…you hit it on the head! Using sarcasam teaches people not to trust you. Thats why its so damaging.

    2. William Burke

      Right. Your sarcasm identifies you as someone who has a strong perception of absurdity and cluelessness. And you’ll be reviled by the clueless and absurd for using the best tool at your disposal.

      And they will despise you for it, just as they despise anyone who’s not a dullard like themselves.

  14. Sarcasm does not have to be about or directed at another person. It can be applied to almost any situation. The type of sarcasm you are referring to can indeed be a form of mocking but whether it can be viewed as truly offensive or not entirely depends on the context in which it is spoken as well as the intent. I am not ashamed to admit that I use sarcasm on a daily basis, in fact, if I am opening my mouth, I am probably being sarcastic. Even my thoughts are sarcastic. That does not mean I am incapable of being sensitive and only set out to mock other people. I tend to mock myself more than others, there’s the insecurity you mentioned. . . and there I detect a tiny hint of sarcasm. Did it hurt anyone? I doubt it. So what we have learned? Kids, play nicely! Don’t pick on your friends, and if you do, just be blatant, it saves a lot of trouble!

    1. I want to say that i thought the same way as you, for many years– especially the eighties. I thought– I turn it on myself, my friends don’t mind, they know I would never hurt them, I can be sensitive when it’s appropriate…

      eventually i realised that my self-assessment was completely out of touch with what my friends were seeing, and that I had a repustation for being insensitive, bullying, and egotistic.

      Ask your friends, is my advice. But– if you’ve beendoing this for a longtime, be aware that you might not get an honest reaction for a while. You may have taught them not to trust you.

      1. Hi…you hit it on the head! Using sarcasam teaches people not to trust you. Thats why its so damaging.

    2. William Burke

      Right. Your sarcasm identifies you as someone who has a strong perception of absurdity and cluelessness. And you’ll be reviled by the clueless and absurd for using the best tool at your disposal.

      And they will despise you for it, just as they despise anyone who’s not a dullard like themselves.

  15. Sarcasm does not have to be about or directed at another person. It can be applied to almost any situation. The type of sarcasm you are referring to can indeed be a form of mocking but whether it can be viewed as truly offensive or not entirely depends on the context in which it is spoken as well as the intent. I am not ashamed to admit that I use sarcasm on a daily basis, in fact, if I am opening my mouth, I am probably being sarcastic. Even my thoughts are sarcastic. That does not mean I am incapable of being sensitive and only set out to mock other people. I tend to mock myself more than others, there’s the insecurity you mentioned. . . and there I detect a tiny hint of sarcasm. Did it hurt anyone? I doubt it. So what we have learned? Kids, play nicely! Don’t pick on your friends, and if you do, just be blatant, it saves a lot of trouble!

    1. I want to say that i thought the same way as you, for many years– especially the eighties. I thought– I turn it on myself, my friends don’t mind, they know I would never hurt them, I can be sensitive when it’s appropriate…

      eventually i realised that my self-assessment was completely out of touch with what my friends were seeing, and that I had a repustation for being insensitive, bullying, and egotistic.

      Ask your friends, is my advice. But– if you’ve beendoing this for a longtime, be aware that you might not get an honest reaction for a while. You may have taught them not to trust you.

      1. Hi…you hit it on the head! Using sarcasam teaches people not to trust you. Thats why its so damaging.

    2. William Burke

      Right. Your sarcasm identifies you as someone who has a strong perception of absurdity and cluelessness. And you’ll be reviled by the clueless and absurd for using the best tool at your disposal.

      And they will despise you for it, just as they despise anyone who’s not a dullard like themselves.

  16. I agree with the main idea in this article – that sarcasm comes from insecurity, anger, social awkwardness, and that it can be hurtful to people. But, I don’t agree with the examples you used to illustrate sarcasm. Saying someone looks like a mountain man when they have a lot of facial hair, or that someone looks so different with lots of makeup on you’d hardly recognize them, seem like direct and sincere statements. They are slight exaggerations, but exaggerations of a sincere sentiment. On the other hand, sarcasm is insincere compliments, when you mean the exact opposite, couched in an exaggerated tone because vocal inflection upon delivery is key to making it understood that it is sarcasm. Example: After son fails at a task, father says to son “You REALLY hit the ball out of the park on that one, son.”

    1. William Burke

      If Ambrose Bierce were ever return to us again, I pray for both of you that you never meet.

      1. i pray that you never come back to this article again because of your stupid obsession for sarcasm and for your interference with the hatred of sarcasm haters.

      2. I have a friend who is sarcastic 24/7. It doesn’t matter how important the topic, how serious the context, or how hurtful it can be. His sarcasm is not intelligent. It is only hurtful, and actually it is quite stupid. It is grating. It is irritating. Needless to say, we are not really friends anymore. That doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate the sarcasm of comedy greats, on SNL, or The Onion. There is good sarcasm and there is needless sarcasm. The point of my comment above is that the examples of sarcasm in this article are not actually sarcasm at all!

  17. I agree with the main idea in this article – that sarcasm comes from insecurity, anger, social awkwardness, and that it can be hurtful to people. But, I don’t agree with the examples you used to illustrate sarcasm. Saying someone looks like a mountain man when they have a lot of facial hair, or that someone looks so different with lots of makeup on you’d hardly recognize them, seem like direct and sincere statements. They are slight exaggerations, but exaggerations of a sincere sentiment. On the other hand, sarcasm is insincere compliments, when you mean the exact opposite, couched in an exaggerated tone because vocal inflection upon delivery is key to making it understood that it is sarcasm. Example: After son fails at a task, father says to son “You REALLY hit the ball out of the park on that one, son.”

    1. William Burke

      If Ambrose Bierce were ever return to us again, I pray for both of you that you never meet.

      1. i pray that you never come back to this article again because of your stupid obsession for sarcasm and for your interference with the hatred of sarcasm haters.

      2. I have a friend who is sarcastic 24/7. It doesn’t matter how important the topic, how serious the context, or how hurtful it can be. His sarcasm is not intelligent. It is only hurtful, and actually it is quite stupid. It is grating. It is irritating. Needless to say, we are not really friends anymore. That doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate the sarcasm of comedy greats, on SNL, or The Onion. There is good sarcasm and there is needless sarcasm. The point of my comment above is that the examples of sarcasm in this article are not actually sarcasm at all!

  18. I agree with the main idea in this article – that sarcasm comes from insecurity, anger, social awkwardness, and that it can be hurtful to people. But, I don’t agree with the examples you used to illustrate sarcasm. Saying someone looks like a mountain man when they have a lot of facial hair, or that someone looks so different with lots of makeup on you’d hardly recognize them, seem like direct and sincere statements. They are slight exaggerations, but exaggerations of a sincere sentiment. On the other hand, sarcasm is insincere compliments, when you mean the exact opposite, couched in an exaggerated tone because vocal inflection upon delivery is key to making it understood that it is sarcasm. Example: After son fails at a task, father says to son “You REALLY hit the ball out of the park on that one, son.”

    1. William Burke

      If Ambrose Bierce were ever return to us again, I pray for both of you that you never meet.

      1. i pray that you never come back to this article again because of your stupid obsession for sarcasm and for your interference with the hatred of sarcasm haters.

      2. I have a friend who is sarcastic 24/7. It doesn’t matter how important the topic, how serious the context, or how hurtful it can be. His sarcasm is not intelligent. It is only hurtful, and actually it is quite stupid. It is grating. It is irritating. Needless to say, we are not really friends anymore. That doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate the sarcasm of comedy greats, on SNL, or The Onion. There is good sarcasm and there is needless sarcasm. The point of my comment above is that the examples of sarcasm in this article are not actually sarcasm at all!

    1. Danielle McRae

      Hi Jack, thanks! Hopefully, that’s not sarcasm 😉 -Danielle and the Science of People Team

    2. Since I’m guessing that’s sarcastic, I don’t think that you should be commenting on tihs article because it’s against sarcasm.

    1. Danielle McRae

      Hi Jack, thanks! Hopefully, that’s not sarcasm 😉 -Danielle and the Science of People Team

    2. Since I’m guessing that’s sarcastic, I don’t think that you should be commenting on tihs article because it’s against sarcasm.

    1. Danielle McRae

      Hi Jack, thanks! Hopefully, that’s not sarcasm 😉 -Danielle and the Science of People Team

    2. Since I’m guessing that’s sarcastic, I don’t think that you should be commenting on tihs article because it’s against sarcasm.

  19. Every can be a little sarcastic sometimes, it’s good to be a balanced individual. But there are a few people who are overly sarcastic with sarcasm as their only means of communication, and that’s not only
    annoying, which hampers good conversation but also hurtful which in turn affects the relationship.

    I once had a friend who was sarcastic all the time, and she was proud of it. Whenever I talked to her it left a bad taste in my mouth, and it’s hard to trust her now.

    Now I see (overly) sarcastic people as insecure wimps who can’t say genuine things and mean it, instead they hide behind the veil of sarcasm and say they are just being funny. Pathetic.

    1. Sounds exactly like my best friend :/ im seriously thinking of letting go because instead of being funny I felt worst after meeting up with her. It’s very disappointing cause while she has always been like that, it became too much it felt so hard to keep up a convo with her. Everything I say is returned with something sarcastic, disrespectful and offensive. I don’t even feel like talking to her anymore. I just hope she gets out of that habit real soon or I have to let her go 🙁

      1. I thought the same, but then I decided not to take crap from anyone, not even “close” friends because it sends out the message that it’s alright to treat you bad and ultimately lowers one’s (self)worth. So I dropped her. Maybe talk to her and let her know what you feel, if she doesn’t change her behavior – move on.

    2. Bears repeating:

      “Now I see (overly) sarcastic people as insecure wimps who can’t say genuine things and mean it, instead they hide behind the veil of sarcasm and say they are just being funny. Pathetic.”

          1. I may hate sarcasm. But since you used it against him, I forgive you by complimenting him for being such an insensitive and inconsiderate douche.

          2. oh sorry. i meant to type “him” instead of “you” between “complimenting” and “for.” my apologies.

            to make up for you mistake, i compliment you badmouthing William/Will.

    3. William Burke

      She was giving you hints: PLEASE LEAVE ME ALONE.

      Despite efforts to the contrary on your behalf, she finally got what she wanted. What took you so long? Are you stupid?

  20. Every can be a little sarcastic sometimes, it’s good to be a balanced individual. But there are a few people who are overly sarcastic with sarcasm as their only means of communication, and that’s not only
    annoying, which hampers good conversation but also hurtful which in turn affects the relationship.

    I once had a friend who was sarcastic all the time, and she was proud of it. Whenever I talked to her it left a bad taste in my mouth, and it’s hard to trust her now.

    Now I see (overly) sarcastic people as insecure wimps who can’t say genuine things and mean it, instead they hide behind the veil of sarcasm and say they are just being funny. Pathetic.

    1. Sounds exactly like my best friend :/ im seriously thinking of letting go because instead of being funny I felt worst after meeting up with her. It’s very disappointing cause while she has always been like that, it became too much it felt so hard to keep up a convo with her. Everything I say is returned with something sarcastic, disrespectful and offensive. I don’t even feel like talking to her anymore. I just hope she gets out of that habit real soon or I have to let her go 🙁

      1. I thought the same, but then I decided not to take crap from anyone, not even “close” friends because it sends out the message that it’s alright to treat you bad and ultimately lowers one’s (self)worth. So I dropped her. Maybe talk to her and let her know what you feel, if she doesn’t change her behavior – move on.

    2. Bears repeating:

      “Now I see (overly) sarcastic people as insecure wimps who can’t say genuine things and mean it, instead they hide behind the veil of sarcasm and say they are just being funny. Pathetic.”

          1. I may hate sarcasm. But since you used it against him, I forgive you by complimenting him for being such an insensitive and inconsiderate douche.

          2. oh sorry. i meant to type “him” instead of “you” between “complimenting” and “for.” my apologies.

            to make up for you mistake, i compliment you badmouthing William/Will.

    3. William Burke

      She was giving you hints: PLEASE LEAVE ME ALONE.

      Despite efforts to the contrary on your behalf, she finally got what she wanted. What took you so long? Are you stupid?

  21. Every can be a little sarcastic sometimes, it’s good to be a balanced individual. But there are a few people who are overly sarcastic with sarcasm as their only means of communication, and that’s not only
    annoying, which hampers good conversation but also hurtful which in turn affects the relationship.

    I once had a friend who was sarcastic all the time, and she was proud of it. Whenever I talked to her it left a bad taste in my mouth, and it’s hard to trust her now.

    Now I see (overly) sarcastic people as insecure wimps who can’t say genuine things and mean it, instead they hide behind the veil of sarcasm and say they are just being funny. Pathetic.

    1. Sounds exactly like my best friend :/ im seriously thinking of letting go because instead of being funny I felt worst after meeting up with her. It’s very disappointing cause while she has always been like that, it became too much it felt so hard to keep up a convo with her. Everything I say is returned with something sarcastic, disrespectful and offensive. I don’t even feel like talking to her anymore. I just hope she gets out of that habit real soon or I have to let her go 🙁

      1. I thought the same, but then I decided not to take crap from anyone, not even “close” friends because it sends out the message that it’s alright to treat you bad and ultimately lowers one’s (self)worth. So I dropped her. Maybe talk to her and let her know what you feel, if she doesn’t change her behavior – move on.

    2. Bears repeating:

      “Now I see (overly) sarcastic people as insecure wimps who can’t say genuine things and mean it, instead they hide behind the veil of sarcasm and say they are just being funny. Pathetic.”

          1. I may hate sarcasm. But since you used it against him, I forgive you by complimenting him for being such an insensitive and inconsiderate douche.

          2. oh sorry. i meant to type “him” instead of “you” between “complimenting” and “for.” my apologies.

            to make up for you mistake, i compliment you badmouthing William/Will.

    3. William Burke

      She was giving you hints: PLEASE LEAVE ME ALONE.

      Despite efforts to the contrary on your behalf, she finally got what she wanted. What took you so long? Are you stupid?

  22. I agree with Ms. Edwards. Her experience with the person who made the ‘makeup’ comment was not meant to be helpful or kind in any way. It was a direct snipe at her. I feel that the way she came back with her comment about contacting the make-up artist was brilliant!!! Comments like this are not meant to make the recipient feel better or good about herself. They are meant as a low-ball snipe and probably out of jealousy. Why not say, “I saw you on CNN and enjoyed what you had to say” for example. Or………..if the sarcastic person has nothing good to say, then say nothing whatsoever. It goes back to basics and the Golden Rule!

    1. The origins of Sarcasm are ‘a tearing of the flesh.’ It is employed by insecure people who hide behind it.

  23. I agree with Ms. Edwards. Her experience with the person who made the ‘makeup’ comment was not meant to be helpful or kind in any way. It was a direct snipe at her. I feel that the way she came back with her comment about contacting the make-up artist was brilliant!!! Comments like this are not meant to make the recipient feel better or good about herself. They are meant as a low-ball snipe and probably out of jealousy. Why not say, “I saw you on CNN and enjoyed what you had to say” for example. Or………..if the sarcastic person has nothing good to say, then say nothing whatsoever. It goes back to basics and the Golden Rule!

    1. The origins of Sarcasm are ‘a tearing of the flesh.’ It is employed by insecure people who hide behind it.

  24. I agree with Ms. Edwards. Her experience with the person who made the ‘makeup’ comment was not meant to be helpful or kind in any way. It was a direct snipe at her. I feel that the way she came back with her comment about contacting the make-up artist was brilliant!!! Comments like this are not meant to make the recipient feel better or good about herself. They are meant as a low-ball snipe and probably out of jealousy. Why not say, “I saw you on CNN and enjoyed what you had to say” for example. Or………..if the sarcastic person has nothing good to say, then say nothing whatsoever. It goes back to basics and the Golden Rule!

    1. The origins of Sarcasm are ‘a tearing of the flesh.’ It is employed by insecure people who hide behind it.

  25. I really like this article. I did a search on “husbands who use sarcasm”. It feels so lonely sometimes as if there is a lack of communication. There is no real bonding because the moments and decent conversations are cut off and spun into mindless banter. No one is suggesting to remove humor or sarcasm completely; this is more for people who continuously do this as their whole convo routine. Here is an example of today…(I have a business and was thinking to change the name after moving to a new location).

    me “Im changing the name of the store so get ready”

    him “Get ready to hear a stupid name you mean?”

    me “I won’t try to have a conversation with you anymore. ”

    him “I was just joking geez calm down”

    Things like this consistently all day is very draining. It leads to absolutely no substance at all. Ten years later, I am going to try out the method suggested. It sounds brilliant.

    1. Hi Caroline, thank you for sharing. I am so sorry to hear that you are struggling with this. Sarcasm is incredibly destructive, especially when it is used as the primary mode of communication. We truly hope our suggestions will help improve communication in your marriage. Don’t give up! -Danielle and the Science of People Team

  26. I really like this article. I did a search on “husbands who use sarcasm”. It feels so lonely sometimes as if there is a lack of communication. There is no real bonding because the moments and decent conversations are cut off and spun into mindless banter. No one is suggesting to remove humor or sarcasm completely; this is more for people who continuously do this as their whole convo routine. Here is an example of today…(I have a business and was thinking to change the name after moving to a new location).

    me “Im changing the name of the store so get ready”

    him “Get ready to hear a stupid name you mean?”

    me “I won’t try to have a conversation with you anymore. ”

    him “I was just joking geez calm down”

    Things like this consistently all day is very draining. It leads to absolutely no substance at all. Ten years later, I am going to try out the method suggested. It sounds brilliant.

    1. Hi Caroline, thank you for sharing. I am so sorry to hear that you are struggling with this. Sarcasm is incredibly destructive, especially when it is used as the primary mode of communication. We truly hope our suggestions will help improve communication in your marriage. Don’t give up! -Danielle and the Science of People Team

  27. I really like this article. I did a search on “husbands who use sarcasm”. It feels so lonely sometimes as if there is a lack of communication. There is no real bonding because the moments and decent conversations are cut off and spun into mindless banter. No one is suggesting to remove humor or sarcasm completely; this is more for people who continuously do this as their whole convo routine. Here is an example of today…(I have a business and was thinking to change the name after moving to a new location).

    me “Im changing the name of the store so get ready”

    him “Get ready to hear a stupid name you mean?”

    me “I won’t try to have a conversation with you anymore. ”

    him “I was just joking geez calm down”

    Things like this consistently all day is very draining. It leads to absolutely no substance at all. Ten years later, I am going to try out the method suggested. It sounds brilliant.

    1. Hi Caroline, thank you for sharing. I am so sorry to hear that you are struggling with this. Sarcasm is incredibly destructive, especially when it is used as the primary mode of communication. We truly hope our suggestions will help improve communication in your marriage. Don’t give up! -Danielle and the Science of People Team

  28. This is an extremely closed minded argument that blatantly forces her perspective on the reader. Very poorly written article that is conveyed with the undertones of a personal grievance rather than reasonable argument.

  29. This is an extremely closed minded argument that blatantly forces her perspective on the reader. Very poorly written article that is conveyed with the undertones of a personal grievance rather than reasonable argument.

  30. This is an extremely closed minded argument that blatantly forces her perspective on the reader. Very poorly written article that is conveyed with the undertones of a personal grievance rather than reasonable argument.

  31. I love people who can respond to sarcasm with sarcasm. They are the best kind. I hate overly sensitive people. They are the worst kind.
    I knew an overly sensitive person when I was younger. he would cry for everything. I hated her. Could never take a joke. Uuggh.

    1. FYI, sensitivity is important. If you go around being sarcastic all the time, you could make many enemies with them.

    2. What about people who respond to sarcasm with a closed fist? I’m a busy man, and passive aggressive confrontations take forever… I much prefer to escalate things to violence quickly so the issue can be swiftly resolved and I can get back to what I was doing before I had the misfortune to bump into a shithead like yourself.

        1. Good idea. Because, I don’t choke my anger down when people mistreat me and poke them when I feel safe. I force them to either treat me properly, be destroyed by me, or destroy me. Most passive aggressive types choose to hide, just like you. And, I like it that way.

          1. You seem like one of those losers who get off on starting fights with random strangers on the internet. So im going to be the bigger man here and employ a tactic I like use when my dog is abit too excited or my little brother is throwing a temper tantrum (terrible twos its nuts), im just going to ignore you and perhaps you will go away.

            Or go into the corner and suck on your pacifier, or whatever you do. Dont care.

          2. Raar! I’m Ian Foote and I threaten people on the internet, because making threats you know you can’t possibly be called on is the bravest thing you can do!

            Honor! Respect!

            RAAR!

          3. You’ll need to contribute something more substantive to the discussion if you want me to take you seriously.

          4. Do you know what the funniest part of all your blustery posturing is? The fact that it is abundantly obvious to everyone that you’re taking advantage of the fact that there is no way you’ll ever have to make good on your threats. None whatsoever. This is a well known property of threats made over the internet, something cowards like you have been taking advantage of since it’s been around.

            You can scream about how manly and scary you are all you want, it changes nothing. Your threats are insipid and hollow and mean exactly as much as the average 11 year old pretending to be a Navy SEAL. You’re a garden variety coward, a stereotypical internet tough guy. You’re not even interesting, just loud and stupid.

            If you’re really so goddamn tough, go join a gym and learn to box like a real man and stop pretending you’re going to hurt people over the internet. It’s pathetic.

            You are pathetic.

          5. Nah… I think Wrestling, Muay Thai, BJJ and Capoeira are sufficient for now. I won 4 provincial gold medals on the mat, I have nothing left to prove.

            How about you? You ever going to do anything but spin bullshit stories about people you disagree with?

          6. Congratulations, Innie! You finally found somebody just as bugnuts crazy as you!

            Are you two going to have a little coward’s party where you brag to each other about all the people you’ve threatened but never followed through on? How about all the times you bragged about not being anonymous while simultaneously shielding your offline life from your online actions? Maybe you’ll go to the gym and win some provincial gold medals?

            By the way, neither of you have refuted anything I’ve said. So you’re still a lying coward and everyone still knows it. Now there are just two of you.

            You know what you need to do to crawl out of your cowardly little hole, like a real man would. But you’re not a real man, just a cowardly little weasel, so keep on hiding.

            We all know you will, coward.

          7. Why? Because if we don’t murder people into silence, then people will *gasp* insult each other? The horror! It’s much better to commit mass murder than to expect people to be able to handle being mocked.

            Moron.

          8. I also just wanted to point out that I could actually get you into a fair amount of legal trouble for this sort of thing. You’ve attempted to get my personal information repeatedly for the express purpose of doing me harm. “But he said hurty things at me” isn’t exactly sound legal justification.

            You’ve also repeatedly and explicitly offered support to terrorists, something law enforcement in both our countries frowns upon. This combined with explicit death threats would probably be enough for me to get the police to pay you a highly inconvenient visit.

            I just wanted to point out how little power you have, and how much I have. Not only have I boiled your blood with the power of my mind, I could at any time I want, head on over to Vancouver’s online crime reporting page (convenient guys, thanks) and report you. Did you know that Canada doesn’t have nearly as strong of protections on free speech as America does? So while everything I said was perfectly legal (you bet your cowardly ass it’s legal to call you a coward with micropenis), the same is most assuredly not true of what you have said.

            Isn’t that funny? I think it is.

          9. Yes. That’s true.

            So, you go down to the courthouse, identify yourself, and fill out the paperwork.

            Then, I will know who you are, and I will come kill you.