Some own their use of sarcasm with a badge of pride. Others have described it as the lowest form of wit. Or at least the lowest form of wit besides Kristen Wiig.
Is sarcasm detrimental to the conversation? Perhaps the best question to ask is “why are you using sarcasm?”.
Is it to assert yourself over someone? Is it to put them down so you can make out like you’re the smartest person in the room? Turning a conversation into a competition is always an easy way to kill it.
Is it to mock the person or ridicule them? In which case, do you need to make an enemy? Discussing the validity of your own ideas is a much better way to make a point than simply mocking the other’s view.
“Turning a conversation into a competition is always an easy way to kill it.”
Is it to generate a laugh? How often is sarcasm actually funny?
Sarcasm is often used to belittle another. But it’s not a demonstration of intelligence in itself. Often it is just antagonising & lazy without achieving anything. In general, it’s detrimental to a conversation.
If you are going to use sarcasm, use it sparingly.
Let’s talk.
Use this cut & paste tool for reviewing the year with friends & family.