Target
Sarcasm is a direct attack, often aimed at a specific person or situation. It uses mockery to belittle or criticize. Satire, on the other hand, is broader. It uses humor and exaggeration to comment on social, political, or cultural issues.
Length
Sarcasm is usually delivered in a short jab, like a sarcastic remark. Satire is a more developed critique, often taking the form of a story, essay, cartoon, or even a whole play or film.
Goal
Sarcasm’s main goal is to mock or insult. Satire’s goal is to critique and provoke thought, aiming for social or political change.
Differences
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Sarcasm: If you burn dinner and your friend says, “Wow, that looks delicious!”, they’re being sarcastic. They are mocking your cooking skills with clear negativity.
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Satire: A political cartoon that depicts a politician with a Pinocchio nose is satire. It uses humor and exaggeration to criticize a politician who might be dishonest.