Translation guide
The English word 'sarcastic' describes a tone or remark that means the opposite of what is said, often to mock or criticize. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent. Learners should use phrases that convey irony, biting humor, or insincere praise, depending on the situation. Direct translation often fails; instead, focus on the intended effect.
To express criticism or humor by stating the opposite of the truth, often with a mocking tone.
Literally 'to say irony/sarcasm'. This is the most direct way to describe making a sarcastic remark. It is a neutral description, not the sarcastic remark itself.
彼はよく皮肉を言う。
He often makes sarcastic remarks.
Means to make a snide or spiteful remark. Closer to 'sarcastic' in a mean-spirited way. Often used for backhanded compliments.
彼女は嫌味ばかり言う。
She says nothing but sarcastic things.
To make a snide remark indirectly, often hinting at something. More indirect and passive-aggressive than direct sarcasm.
彼は私の失敗を当てこすった。
He made a sarcastic dig about my mistake.
Describing a person's manner or voice as sarcastic.
A sarcastic way of speaking. '皮肉な' is the adjectival form meaning 'ironic/sarcastic'.
彼の皮肉な言い方が嫌だ。
I don't like his sarcastic tone.
A very snide, sarcastic tone. '嫌味ったらしい' is an emphatic adjective meaning 'full of sarcasm/spite'.
嫌味ったらしい口調で話さないで。
Don't speak in that sarcastic tone.
Actual Japanese expressions that function as sarcastic remarks in context.
Literally 'You say that well,' used sarcastically to mean 'Look who's talking' or 'You're one to talk.' Very common in casual speech.
A: もっと勉強しなよ。 B: よく言うよ、自分は全然しないくせに。
A: You should study more. B: Look who's talking—you never study yourself.
Literally 'How admirable,' used sarcastically to mean the opposite. Formal-sounding but used ironically.
また遅刻？ご立派なことで。
Late again? How impressive.
Very casual, dismissive 'Oh, really?' said with a flat tone to convey sarcasm. Can be rude.
A: 昨日、有名人に会ったんだ。 B: あっそ。
A: I met a celebrity yesterday. B: Oh, really. (sarcastic)
Characterizing someone who frequently uses sarcasm.
A sarcastic/ironic person. '-屋' indicates a person with that trait.
彼は皮肉屋だ。
He's a sarcastic person.
A snide/sarcastic person. More negative connotation than 皮肉屋.
あの人は嫌味な人だね。
That person is so sarcastic, isn't he?
There is no single Japanese adjective that works like 'sarcastic' in English. Avoid trying to use 皮肉な (ironic) as a direct modifier for people or remarks in all contexts. Instead, describe the action or use set phrases.
彼は皮肉な人です。
He is a sarcastic person. (Unnatural; better: 彼は皮肉屋です。)
皮肉 (irony) can be humorous or witty, while 嫌味 (spiteful remark) is always negative and hurtful. Use 皮肉 for clever sarcasm, 嫌味 for mean-spirited sarcasm.
Japanese sarcasm often relies on tone of voice, timing, and context rather than specific vocabulary. A flat delivery of a positive statement can convey sarcasm. Learners should observe native speakers' intonation.