Abstract
<jats:p>This paper examines sarcasm, defined as a pointed, malicious mockery. Sarcasm relates to other forms of humorous reactions to phenomena that provoke negative emotions, such as irony, banter, satire, and dark humor. Cognitively, sarcasm is constructed as a contrast between what is expected and what is presented. The conceptual characteristics of sarcasm boil down to the traits of malicious mockery, which includes teasing, insulting, and expressing contempt. The figurative and situational signs of this aggressive laughing behavior involve explaining the reason behind such a reaction to specific circumstances. Sarcasm is often an emotional response to absurdity. Interpreting sarcasm requires considering the contextual conditions of such behavior, and the line between sarcasm and irony is quite tenuous. In everyday discourse, sarcasm frequently borders on outright insult. In institutional discourse, this type of mockery is typical in educational, medical, and political communication. Existential sarcasm characterizes an understanding of the meaning of life, attitudes toward fate, and evaluations of good and evil.</jats:p>