People tend to avoid sarcasm in professional situations.
For example, you might say, “You probably don’t want to pull an extra shift, do you?” The person may sarcastically respond with, “Yes! There’s nothing I’d love more than to pull a double on my day off. "
If something annoying happens, they might say, “That’s just what I need right now. " If something expected happens, they may reply, “Who would have thought!” If a person makes a mistake, they might say, “Oh, really good job!” If someone points out something obvious, the person may say, “Wow. Did you figure that out for yourself?”
For example, someone might tell their sloppy partner, “I just love getting to put your things back where they belong. How else would you be able to then toss them on the floor?”
For example, they’re probably being sarcastic if they say, “I got this gorgeous olive and orange sweater for my birthday. "
For example, they might respond to someone else’s excitement by stating, “yay,” in a low, bland tone.
For example, they might say, “I can’t believe you’re asking me out if your other date falls through! I’m so lucky!”
If the person sighs heavily, they may want you to recognize that they’re being sarcastic.
For example, they might raise their eyebrows or even open their eyes wider to exaggerate them.
For example, they might say, “Sure! I love giving up my free time to help you move. " Although the words could be genuine, it’s probably sarcasm if they look away and aren’t smiling when they say them.
The person might also be sarcastic if they look disinterested or bored while saying something that should be exciting. “I can’t wait to go to their wedding this week,” for instance.
Other gestures include nodding the head vigorously and giving a thumbs-up sign when they’re actually implying the opposite.
Keep in mind that if you’re exchanging professional emails with someone you don’t know, they’re probably not going to be sarcastic. However, if you’re texting back and forth with an old friend, they may message something that could be sarcastic in tone.
“This date is going so well. We have so much in common,” with an upside-down smiley face.
For example, some might respond to a text or email saying, “Of course I’d love to watch your favorite movie for the fifth time. I’m sure we’ll get around to my choices sometime next year. " The writer might also put exaggerated words in parenthesis after a sentence. For example, “I can’t believe the kids don’t want to go back to school (wow!). "
“Let’s make this week great!” seems sincere, but adding #sarcasm changes the meaning.
