How to Convey Sarcasm in Written Messages
Sarcasm is difficult to convey in writing, but the consequences of misusing or misinterpreting a sarcastic phrase can be serious. Sarcasm is, after all, “abrasive and often satirical or ironic utterance intended to hurt or hurt” or “a kind of satirical wit that depends on its effect on bitter, caustic and often ironic language,” according to Merriam- webster. Thus, when you are sarcastic, you usually say something that is not true – with the understanding that the other person will know that it is not true. Your tone of voice can help convey such wit in real life, but in a text, email, or tweet, sarcasm can be much harder to detect.
Consider context before resorting to sarcasm
This tip comes from Christina Adams of The Writer’s Cookbook , and while it’s aimed at science fiction writers, it’s suitable for even the most basic text editor. If you want to be sarcastic, you need to determine if the setting allows it. Some settings are straightforward, even digitally. If your boss emails you an assignment while you’re busy, you don’t reply with a sarcastic “Sure, I’ll take care of it right away.” Due to the dynamics of the relationship and the professional environment, your boss may not notice your sarcasm at all, but if he understands, he is unlikely to appreciate it.
Other times, the situation may seem appropriate for a sarcastic joke. Maybe you and your friend trade barbs and snarky comments all the time, but when your friend and his partner are fighting, it’s not the time to dig into their significant other. When negative emotions intensify, sarcasm can cut a little deeper.
As Adams noted, many sarcastic jokes also don’t translate well out of context. You have to be careful that whatever you say is at the right time, in the right setting, and with the right people, so you don’t become the next victim of a viral screenshot taken out of context.
Make sure your sarcastic messages are not offensive.
Rakia Ben Sassi of The Writing Cooperative also noted that it’s important to define context and audience, but shared more tips on how to write a message after you’ve done so. Whether it’s a tweet or text, use an informal tone and don’t overdo it.
She also suggested that you read the text aloud to determine if it sounds sarcastic and then change the tone if necessary: “Sarcasm, of course, must be sarcastic. But you have to make sure it’s taken as a joke and not a threat. This form of humor uses irony or absurdity to criticize something or someone, but it is a double-edged sword. Use your intuition and try not to sound too threatening or aggressive.”
Modern problems require modern solutions
The effective delivery of sarcasm has plagued writers and pen pals for years. This is not new. What’s new, of course, is how many opportunities you have every day to be misunderstood in some digital forum, be it on Facebook, email, or text message. Fortunately, with all these new mediums, there are also new innovations when it comes to self-expression.
To convey the sarcasm in the text, G/O Media video producer Justin Rodriguez says he simply adds eye-rolling emoji. You can try this or choose a gif, meme, or other image to help convey your irony and irreverence.
Some social media users also use “/s” to indicate sarcasm, but this can come across as contrived and a bit cringeworthy. Stick to emojis if possible. Experience has shown that if it seems inappropriate to include a smiley, it is probably inappropriate to try to use sarcasm in the first place.