Sarcasm vs. Cynicism — What's the Difference?
Difference Between Sarcasm and Cynicism
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Compare with Definitions
Sarcasm
Sarcasm is the use of words usually used to either mock or annoy someone, or for humorous purposes. Sarcasm may employ ambivalence, although it is not necessarily ironic.
Cynicism
An attitude of scornful or jaded negativity, especially a general distrust of the integrity or professed motives of others
The public cynicism aroused by governmental scandals.
Sarcasm
A cutting, often ironic remark intended to express contempt or ridicule.
Cynicism
A scornfully or jadedly negative comment or act
"She arrived at a philosophy of her own, all made up of her private notations and cynicisms" (Henry James).
Sarcasm
A form of wit characterized by the use of such remarks
Detected a hint of sarcasm in his voice.
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Cynicism
Cynicism The beliefs of the ancient Cynics.
Sarcasm
(uncountable) Use of acerbic language to mock or convey contempt, often using irony and (in speech) often marked by overemphasis and a sneering tone of voice.
Cynicism
(uncountable) A distrustful attitude.
Sarcasm
(countable) An act of sarcasm.
Cynicism
(uncountable) An emotion of jaded negativity, or a general distrust of the integrity or professed motives of other people. Cynicism can manifest itself by frustration, disillusionment and distrust in regard to organizations, authorities and other aspects of society, often due to previous bad experience. Cynics often view others as motivated solely by disguised self-interest.
Sarcasm
A keen, reproachful expression; a satirical remark uttered with some degree of scorn or contempt; a taunt; a gibe; a cutting jest.
The sarcasms of those critics who imagine our art to be a matter of inspiration.
Cynicism
(countable) A skeptical, scornful or pessimistic comment or act.
Sarcasm
Witty language used to convey insults or scorn;
He used sarcasm to upset his opponent
Irony is wasted on the stupid
Satire is a sort of glass, wherein beholders do generally discover everybody's face but their own
Cynicism
The doctrine of the Cynics; the quality of being cynical; the mental state, opinions, or conduct, of a cynic; morose and contemptuous views and opinions.
Cynicism
A cynical feeling of distrust
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