Meaning
讽刺 means to use indirect or witty language to criticize, mock, or point out flaws in people, situations, or ideas. As a noun, it refers to satirical content or the literary/artistic technique of satire. The word combines 讽 (to recite or hint) and 刺 (to pierce or stab), suggesting the use of pointed language to expose faults.
Usage
讽刺 is used in both everyday conversation and formal contexts like literary criticism. It can describe gentle teasing or harsh criticism depending on context. Common patterns include 讽刺某人 (to satirize someone) and 充满讽刺 (full of irony). The tone can range from playful to biting, so context matters greatly.
Examples
- 01这部电影用黑色幽默讽刺了社会的不公现象。.This film uses dark humor to satirize social injustice.
- 02他总是用讽刺的语气说话，让人觉得不舒服。, .He always speaks in a sarcastic tone, which makes people feel uncomfortable.
Characters
Common collocations
- 讽刺意味ironic meaning, sense of irony
- 充满讽刺full of irony
- 讽刺小说satirical novel
- 辛辣讽刺sharp satire
Antonyms
Origin
The character 讽 originally meant to recite or chant, often with indirect meaning, while 刺 means to stab or pierce. Together they evoke the image of using sharp, indirect words to penetrate and expose flaws.