How Do You Detect Sarcasm In Writing?
Sarcasm, sardonicism and parody are three of the most widely-used stylistic tools in writing. Although they’re all slightly different from each other, their gists are the same. Writers use them to indirectly convey sharp, often witty criticism. Sardonicism and parody are more frequent in classic literature, but sarcasm is the weapon of choice for columnists, journalists and TV personalities around the world who want to make statements as boldy and pointedly as possible. Look for statements of emotion or opinion that seem out of place in the given context. If a writer’s supporting an opinion that seems completely illogical, there’s a good chance he or she’s being sarcastic and attempting to convey the opposite position. Keep an eye out for hyperbole, or exaggerated phrasing. Writers often overstate an opinion to reveal its logical or ethical flaws. Watch for italicized, underlined or bold-faced words. These show that the writer is trying very hard to emphasize whatever point he or she’s
