Friday, June 6, 2008

Sarcasm - Hiniku 皮肉

Today's discussion is on sarcasm. The idea of sarcasm is relatively straightforward in Western language. You say something in a sarcastic tone, usually a dramatic flair, where you mean to imply the opposite of what you say. This subtextual method of communication is a means of exaggeration and either a light joke or a serious insult.
In the Japanese culture, sarcasm or 'hiniku' is only used in the form of harsh commentary. It is not used for lighthearted joking as it is in Western society and could start conflict.