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What are some common sarcastic words and phrases to avoid?

English Language & Usage Asked by Larryjl on April 2, 2021

Sometimes I accidentally sound sarcastic or rude when I don’t mean to. For example,

  • Yeah, right.
  • Yeah, yeah, yeah.
  • Sure, sure.
  • Good for you.
  • If you say so.
  • Fine.

What are some phrases that very frequently used sarcastically? Words that, even with a neutral tone or in writing, have a very high chance of being heard with sarcasm.

One Answer

This is at first sight off topic because it seems to depend on opinion. Answers to most of these examples depend on context, tone of voice or opinion. If they are delivered with a warm smile in circumstances where your approval may reasonably be expected they are acceptable. If they are delivered with a withering and offhand sneer they will offend.

Your list could be extended ad nauseam: “Yeah, right”, ”That worked well” ...

Nevertheless, one phrase stands out as an example of intrinsically sarcastic usage rather than a matter of opinion. “if you say so” is almost guaranteed to offend because it says that the speaker (only) agrees with you because you have spoken. Had you not spoken they would not have been of the same opinion (so they are passively or dismissively disagreeing with you) or they would not have considered the matter (so they consider the matter, and your opinion, trivial). Either case offends.

Answered by Anton on April 2, 2021

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