Comparisons of Ironic and Sarcastic Arguments in Terms of Appropriateness and Effectiveness in Personal Relationships

Due to frequent confusion over what exactly an ironic argument is and how it differs from sarcasm, this study seeks to distinguish between irony and sarcasm in the interpersonal context. Conceptual differences are offered between irony and sarcasm, and literal, ironic, and sarcastic arguments are compared in terms of appropriateness and effectiveness. Results showed that sarcastic arguments were rated the least effective and least appropriate. Ironic arguments were rated moderately appropriate and most effective. The literal arguments were rated moderately effective and most appropriate. With these distinctions made between irony and sarcasm future directions are offered.