This sentence begins the best article you will ever read.
Chances are you thought that last statement might be sarcasm. Sarcasm, as linguist Robert Gibbs noted, includes “words used to express something other than and especially the opposite of the literal meaning of a sentence.” A form of irony, it also tends to be directed toward a specific individual.
However, it’s not always easy to figure out if a writer is being sarcastic — particularly as we march ahead in a digital age that has transformed the way we communicate, with texting, emailing and online commentary replacing face-to-face chats or phone conversations.
In writing, the signal of sarcasm can be muddied. For example, say you’re texting with a friend about meeting at the movies:
Friend: I’m waiting at the front. Movie starts in 5.
You: I’m on my way now. Should be there in 10.
Friend: I’m glad you were watching the clock today.
Was the friend being sarcastic or sincere? The later you are, the more upset they’ll likely be, and the higher the probability their response is a sarcastic jab. But if your friend knows you’re usually much later, they could be sincere.
So there’s one thing to look for: How well does the attitude the writer is conveying agree with the situation and the person?
Nonetheless, the struggle to interpret written sarcasm is real.
Studies have shown that people realize they have a tough time interpreting sarcasm in writing. Studying the use of email, researchers found writers who think they’re being obviously sarcastic still confuse readers.
Sarcasm thrives in ambiguous situations – and that’s the main issue.
When delivered in person, sarcasm tends to assume a cutting, bitter tone. But written messages don’t always get that attitude across or give you much else to go on. We still need more information.
Signals That Go Missing in Texts
Studies have examined the use of sarcasm in a variety of everyday situations, whether it’s ...
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