Question

What is the difference between sarcasm and verbal irony?

Answer 1

Sarcasm is verbal irony used in a mocking way, I believe.

Answer 2

The correct answer is C. Sarcasm is verbal irony used in a mocking way.

Explanation:

Verbal irony focuses on conveying a message that is the opposite of the literal meaning of the words used. This implies in verbal irony there is an incongruence between the real message of the speaker and the words he/she uses, due to this, the use of verbal irony is often related to humor.

On the other hand, sarcasm focuses on mocking someone or criticizing society by using exaggeration and irony to show flaws or negative aspects. The previous idea implies sarcasm is verbal irony but different from regular verbal irony the purpose is to mock or criticize someone or something rather than only using humor. Therefore, the difference between sarcasm and the verbal irony is "Sarcasm is verbal irony used in a mocking way".