① Sarcasm and jazz have something surprisingly in common: You know them when you hear them. Sarcasm is mostly understood through tone of voice, which is used to portray the opposite of the literal words. For example, when someone says, “Well, that’s exactly what I need right now,” their tone can tell you it’s not what they need at all.

② Most frequently, sarcasm highlights an irritation or is, quite simply, mean.

③ If you want to be happier and improve your relationships, cut out sarcasm. Why? Because sarcasm is actually hostility disguised as humor.

④ Despite smiling outwardly, many people who receive sarcastic comments feel put down and often think the sarcastic person is rude, or contemptible. Indeed, it’s not surprising that the origin of the word sarcasm derives from the Greek word “sarkazein” which literally means “to tear or strip the flesh off.” Hence, it’s no wonder that sarcasm is often preceded by the word “cutting” and that it hurts.

⑤ What’s more, since actions strongly determine thoughts and feelings, when a person consistently acts sarcastically it may only serve to heighten their underlying hostility and insecurity. After all, when you come right down to it, sarcasm can be used as a subtle form of bullying—and most bullies are angry, insecure, or cowardly.

⑥ Alternatively, when a person stops voicing negative comments, especially sarcastic ones, they may soon start to feel happier and more self-confident. Also, other people in their life benefit even more because they no longer have to hear the emotionally hurtful language of sarcasm.

⑦ Now, I’m not saying all sarcasm is bad. It may just be better used sparingly — like a potent spice in cooking. Too much of the spice, and the dish will be overwhelmed by it. Similarly, an occasional dash of sarcastic wit can spice up a chat and add an element of humor to it. But a big or steady serving of sarcasm will overwhelm the emotional flavor of any conversation and can taste very bitter to its recipient.

⑧ So, tone down the sarcasm and work on clever wit instead, which is usually without any hostility and thus more appreciated by those you’re communicating with. In essence, sarcasm is easy while true, harmless wit takes talent.

⑨ Thus, the main difference between wit and sarcasm is that, as already stated, sarcasm is often hostility disguised as humor. It can be intended to hurt and is often bitter and biting. Witty statements are usually in response to someone’s unhelpful remarks or behaviors, and the intent is to untangle and clarify the issue by emphasizing its absurdities. Sarcastic statements are expressed in a cutting manner; witty remarks are delivered with undisguised and harmless humor.

1. 1.Why does the author say sarcasm and jazz have something surprisingly in common?

A    Both are recognized when heard.

B    Both have exactly the same tone.

C    Both mean the opposite of what they appear to.

D    Both have hidden in them an evident irritation.

2. 2.How do many people feel when they hear sarcastic comments?

A    They feel hostile towards the sarcastic person.

B    They feel belittled and disrespected.

C    They feel a strong urge to retaliate.

D    They feel incapable of disguising their irritation.

3. 3.What happens when a person consistently acts sarcastically?

A    They feel their dignity greatly heightened.

B    They feel increasingly insecure and hostile.

C    They endure hostility under the disguise of humor.

D    They taste bitterness even in pleasant interactions.

4. 4.What does the author say about people quitting sarcastic comments?

A    It makes others happier and more self-confident.

B    It restrains them from being irritating and bullying.

C    It benefits not only themselves but also those around them.

D    It shields them from negative comments and outright hostility.

5. 5.What is the chief difference between a speaker’s wit and sarcasm?

A    Their clarity.

B    Their emphasis.

C    Their appreciation.

D    Their intention.