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What Is Satire?
Definition of "Satire"
Satire is the use of comedy, sarcasm, irony, or exaggeration to expose the flaws or vices of individuals, institutions, or groups (including their ideas, claims, and proposals).Satire is most commonly used in the context of topical issues, particularly in the political arena.
Table of Contents
- Examples of Satire
- More Examples of Satire
- Why Satire Is Important
- What Is Satire For?

Examples of Satire
Here are some examples of satire:- If voting changed anything, they would make it illegal. (This uses sarcasm to undermine democracy.)
- Ninety percent of the politicians give the other ten percent a bad reputation. (This uses exaggeration to highlight the vices of politicians.)
- When I was a boy, I was told that anybody could become President. Now I'm beginning to believe it. (This uses comedy to allude that the current President has no talent.)

This button uses irony to attack the idea of censorship.
More Examples of Satire
Here are some more examples of satire.






- "When a thing is funny, search it carefully for a hidden truth." (Playwright George Bernard Shaw)
Using satire is an effective way to undermine your target.
When people laugh at a satirical joke, they are, in effect, agreeing with the underpinning observation being presented by the satirist. Presenting an attacking observation in satire is effective because it allows the audience members to reach their own conclusion. By laughing, they are recognizing the absurdity of the reality being described.Look at these two statements:
- I am a brilliant swimmer. (Said by John, this sentence is not convincing. It also makes you dislike John and, inwardly at least, challenge the claim.)
- John is a brilliant swimmer. (Said by someone who knows John, this sentence is far more convincing.)
What Is Satire For?
Here is a great explanation of what satire is for:Help Us Improve Grammar Monster
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