Sarcasm is saying the opposite of what one really means, in order to mock someone or something or to show annoyance. Which of the following situations is the best example of sarcasm?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → After waiting two hours on the platform for a late train, Gaurav says, ‘What wonderful service! The train is only two hours late.’
Sarcasm has two parts: the speaker says the opposite of what he or she means, and does so to mock or to show annoyance.
In Option (4) Gaurav calls a two-hour delay ’wonderful service’, the opposite of what he means, to show his annoyance. Both parts are present.
Why the other options are incorrect
Option (1) Gaurav thanks the guard who helped him find his seat, saying, ‘You have been very kind.’ — Incorrect. Gaurav means what he says; he is really thankful.
Option (2) Gaurav calls his friend and tells him that the train is running two hours late. — Incorrect. Gaurav only states a fact; he does not say the opposite of what he means.
Option (3) Annoyed by the long wait, Gaurav says, ‘This delay is terrible!’ — Incorrect. Gaurav is annoyed, but he says exactly what he means.