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satire

[ˈsætaɪər]

satire Definition

the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues.

Using satire: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "satire" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The show is a satire on modern society.

  • Example

    The cartoonist used satire to criticize the government's policies.

  • Example

    The novel is a biting satire of the fashion industry.

  • Example

    The comedian's satire was well-received by the audience.

satire Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for satire

Antonyms for satire

Idioms Using satire

  • a work of art or literature that uses satire to criticize or expose something

    Example

    The movie is a satire on the entertainment industry.

  • a satire that is harsh and critical

    Example

    The novel is a biting satire of the fashion industry.

  • a humorous or critical interpretation of something

    Example

    The comedian's satirical take on the news was hilarious.

Phrases with satire

  • a type of satire that is gentle, urbane, smiling; aims to correct through humor

    Example

    The writer's horatian satire pokes fun at the absurdities of everyday life.

  • a type of satire that is harsh, bitter, angry; aims to attack its target

    Example

    The cartoonist's juvenalian satire criticizes the government's policies in a scathing manner.

  • menippean satire

    a type of satire that is characterized by a mixture of verse and prose, and targets mental attitudes rather than individuals or institutions

    Example

    The play is a menippean satire that mocks the pretensions of the intellectual elite.

Origins of satire

from Latin 'satura', meaning 'medley'

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Summary: satire in Brief

The term 'satire' [ˈsætaɪər] refers to the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues. It can be gentle and urbane, as in 'horatian satire,' or harsh and bitter, as in 'juvenalian satire.' Satire can also be characterized by a mixture of verse and prose, as in 'menippean satire.' Examples include a TV show, a cartoon, a novel, and a comedian's performance.