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Sarcasm Test

20 Questions
3 Minutes

Are you too sarcastic?

Humor is an important coping mechanism and a powerful social bonding force. It’s known to boost both individual and group well-being. But sarcastic humor can cut two ways—in fact, the word is derived from the Greek term for “to tear flesh.” How skilled are you at knowing when to use sarcasm—and when not?

Using the key below, answer the questions based on how strongly you agree or disagree with the statement.

Disagree
Strongly Disagree
Neutral
Agree
Strongly Agree
1. I find sarcastic humor hurtful.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
2. Sarcasm should never be used with young children.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
3. I’d rather use sarcastic humor than direct criticism to voice displeasure with someone.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
4. I wish others would not use sarcasm on me.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
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5. It can be hard to tell when people are being sarcastic.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
6. People can think I’m being mean when I think I’m being funny.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
7. Sarcasm is best reserved for people you trust.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
8. It is difficult to know when sarcasm is appropriate.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
9. I find sarcasm confusing.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
10. Sarcasm hurts people’s feelings.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
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11. Sarcasm can create misunderstanding or conflict.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
12. If someone can’t take sarcasm, that’s their problem.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
13. Sarcastic humor is rarely funny.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
14. Sarcasm is a form of aggression.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
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15. Sarcasm is a good way to conceal your annoyance at someone.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
16. People know when I am being sarcastic.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
17. I never use sarcastic humor.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
18. Sarcasm is hostility in the guise of humor.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
19. At least one person has been displeased with me after I said something sarcastic.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
20. Sarcasm is never a helpful way of communicating.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
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Who Is This Test For?

This test is for anyone who wants to learn about their level of sarcasm. This test is designed for adults and is not intended to be diagnostic.

 

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How to Get Help

If you need help improving social skills and relating to people, speaking to a mental health professional can help. You can easily find a therapist in your area on the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.

Sources

Luigi Anolli, et al. From “Blame to Praise” to “Praise by Blame.” International Journal of Psychology.
Ning Zhu, Ruth Filik. "Individual Differences in Sarcasm Interpretation and Use." Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition.
Li Huang, et al. "The highest form of intelligence." Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes.