SARCASM LINGUISTIC STYLE AMONG NETIZENS ON THE INSTAGRAM

SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM

Gaya Bahasa Sarkasme di Kalangan Netizen di Platform Media Sosial Instagram

Rini Damayantia,*, Kaswadib,*

a,*
Departement of language and science, Universitas Wijaya Kusuma Surabaya, Indonesia
b,*
Departement of language and science, Universitas Wijaya Kusuma Surabaya, Indonesia
*e-mail: rinidamayanti_fbs@uwks.ac.id

Abstrak: Penelitian ini meneliti penggunaan sarkasme di kalangan netizen Indonesia di Instagram,
dengan fokus pada akun @Insertlive terkait perundungan daring. Menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif
dan deskriptif, studi ini mengungkap berbagai bentuk dan fungsi sarkasme dengan menggunakan
teori fungsi sarkasme Keraf. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah menjelaskan penggunaan bahasa yang
menyinggung dan dampaknya pada komunikasi dan norma sosial di media sosial. Temuan
menunjukkan berbagai fungsi sarkasme, termasuk penolakan, larangan, dan informasi. Dilakukan dari
September hingga Oktober 2022, penelitian ini menganalisis postingan dan komentar untuk
memahami lebih dalam gaya bahasa sarkasme. Penggunaan yang luas dari sarkasme, seringkali
disertai dengan bahasa kasar, menunjukkan sifat meresapnya di Instagram dan perannya dalam
interaksi online. Meskipun digunakan untuk humor, sisi kontroversialnya sebagai alat untuk
melecehkan juga diakui. Penelitian ini memberikan wawasan berharga tentang gaya bahasa di media
sosial, terutama dalam konteks perundungan daring.

Kata kunci: sarkasme, media sosial, Instagram, cyberbullying

Abstract: This study explores the widespread use of sarcasm among Indonesian netizens on
Instagram, focusing on the @Insertlive account associated with cyberbullying. Using a qualitative
approach and Keraf's sarcasm function theory, the research aims to uncover various sarcasm forms
and functions, shedding light on intentional offensive language and its impact on social media
communication and norms. The findings highlight distinct sarcasm functions, such as rejection,
prohibition, and information. Conducted from September to October 2022, the research analyzes
posts and comments, providing a nuanced understanding of sarcasm language styles. The extensive
use of sarcasm, often accompanied by coarse language, underscores its pervasive nature on Instagram,
revealing its multifaceted role in online interactions. While sarcasm is employed for humor, its
contentious side as an insulting tool is also acknowledged. This research offers valuable insights into
language styles on social media, especially in the context of cyberbullying.

Keywords: sarcasm, social media, Instagram, cyberbullying

INTRODUCTION positive advantages, such as easy

The rapid technological progress in
Indonesia, particularly in social
networking, has significantly enhanced
remote communication and access to
various features, aligning with the rise
of the internet. This evolution,
extending beyond adults to include
children and adolescents, brings both
access to information, and negative
aspects, including the misuse of social
media for misinformation (Lim, 2013).
This progress permeates diverse areas
like business, education, health, and
telecommunications.
Virtually every aspect of human
existence is profoundly impacted by
technology, particularly through the
popularity of social media platforms.
Social media, exemplified by the
staggering statistics from Hootsuite
(We Are Social) Indonesian Digital
Report, 2021, with 274.9 million users
in Indonesia, has become an integral
part of daily life (Nababan, 2023).
Instagram, a prominent platform with
85 million active users as of January
2021, has captivated the attention of
Indonesian netizens.
However, a notable concern arises
as a portion of these social media users
misuses the platform, leading to
cybercrimes, with cyberbullying being
a prevalent issue. This harmful
phenomenon involves the use of digital
technology to intimidate, humiliate,
and threaten individuals (Henry &
Powell, 2015).
In this context, the language style
of sarcasm emerges as a significant
focus of this research. Sarcasm, a form
of harsh language used to criticize or
ridicule, is explored within the
Instagram account @insertlive. The
study delves into the functions of
sarcasm, particularly its role in
conveying a harsh tone and criticism, as
observed in the comments on the
Instagram account.
Sarcasm, described as bitter and
coarse ridicule that deviates from
language usage norms, is employed by
netizens for criticism, often breaching
language politeness norms. Various
forms of sarcasm, such as label
sarcasm, attribute sarcasm, lexical
sarcasm, like-prefixed sarcasm, and
illocutionary sarcasm, are identified
and analyzed within the context of
Instagram comments.
The prevalent use of sarcasm in
Indonesian society, influenced by
limitations in language proficiency, is
acknowledged. While sarcasm is
accepted, its negative consequences,
particularly for future generations, are
emphasized. The potential
transformation of personalities,
leading to rule-breaking and a lack of
etiquette understanding, is highlighted
as one of the adverse effects.
Moreover, Sensoy & DiAngelo
(2017) provide a comprehensive
perspective on the functions of sarcasm
in language style, encompassing
rejection, conveying prohibition,
information, affirmation, expressing
opinion, giving orders, asking
questions, making comparisons,
presenting equivalence, and address.
Recognizing the expanded scope of
communication through social media,
especially platforms like Instagram,
where information is easily
disseminated globally, underscores the
importance of understanding language
styles such as sarcasm. In this research,
the sarcasm function theory by Keraf
(in Sukarto & Fauziah, 2022) is
adopted as a relevant theoretical
framework, aligning with the research
objectives and questions. The analysis
aims to provide insights into the
intentional use of offensive language
within the realm of social media,
shedding light on the impact of sarcasm
on communication and societal norms.
METHOD
This research adopted a qualitative
and descriptive research approach,
aligning with Sugiyono's assertion that
descriptive research served to
elucidate information about a
phenomenon, object, system, condition,
thoughts, the status of a group of
people, or an event (Pahmi,
Nurhasanah, Al-akmam, & Syafei,
2022). The objective of this descriptive
research was to systematically and
accurately describe, depict, or portray
facts, characteristics, and relationships
among the investigated phenomena.
The nature of this research was
descriptive, focusing on unraveling the
diction and various forms of the incorporated into the analysis to
sarcasm language style prevalent illustrate specific instances of sarcasm,
among Indonesian netizens on the ensuring the findings were anchored in
social media platform Instagram. real-world examples.
Specifically, the study zoomed in on the By adopting a qualitative and
@Insertlive Instagram account, which descriptive approach, this research
was closely associated with the aimed to contribute valuable insights
cyberbullying phenomenon. The into the language styles employed on
research endeavored to provide a social media, particularly focusing on
comprehensive and detailed sarcasm within the cyberbullying
explanation of the language styles used context. The meticulous data collection
by netizens through the examination of process ensured a comprehensive
visuals derived from posts and understanding of the phenomenon,
comment sections of the @Insertlive enabling the construction of a detailed
Instagram account. and nuanced portrayal of the language
To gather data for this research, a styles used by Indonesian netizens on
systematic and thorough analysis was Instagram.
conducted on the posts and comment
sections of the @Insertlive Instagram FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
account. The data collection process Findings
spanned from September to October This section will discuss the results of the
2022, capturing a representative research and the analysis of the Instagram
timeframe of the language styles account @Insertlive as the data source.
prevalent during this period. This The analysis in this study utilizes a
timeframe allowed for the qualitative descriptive analysis approach.
identification and categorization of The data presented in this section will
sarcasm instances within the specified encompass diction and sarcasm language
duration. style. Based on the approach employed for
The posts on the @Insertlive analysis, it is expected to elucidate the
Instagram account, including captions research objectives in a detailed and clear
and visual content, were scrutinized to manner.
identify instances of sarcasm.
Additionally, comments made by Table 1
netizens in response to these posts Sarcasm functions found in the Instagram
were analyzed to capture the diversity account @Insertlive
of sarcasm language styles employed. Sarcasm
No.
The analysis focused on the different Function Data
forms of sarcasm, including label (A1/31/06/S/
sarcasm, attribute sarcasm, lexical Sarcasm as a FGBSa)
1
sarcasm, like-prefixed sarcasm, and Form of Rejection (A1/32/21/S/
illocutionary sarcasm, providing a FGBSa)
nuanced understanding of the linguistic Sarcasm as a (A1/33/24/S/
expressions used. Form of FGBSb)
2
Furthermore, the research utilized Conveying (A1/34/02/O/
Prohibition FGBSb)
a qualitative approach, allowing for a
deeper exploration of the context and Sarcasm as a (A1/35/08/S/
Form of FGBSc)
nuances surrounding the use of 3
Conveying (A1/36/17/S/
sarcasm. Direct quotations from the
Information FGBSc)
@Insertlive Instagram account were
 Sarcasm as a (A1/37/01/O/ asserting dominance or disagreement.
Form of FGBSd) Data points
4
Emphasizing a (A1/38/01/O/
Statement FGBSd) Naudzubilah......jauhkan hamba dri sifat
Sarcasm as a (A1/39/23/O/ tamak Hukum tabur tuai sih ini
Form of FGBSe) Naudzubilah... keep the servant away
5
Expressing an (A1/40/23/O/ from greed, the law of sowing and reaping,
Opinion FGBSe) indeed. A1/31/06/S/FGBSa
(A1/41/02/O/
Sarcasm as a FGBSf)
6 Form of Giving and
Orders (A1/42/02/O/ Berita gak penting koq di up.
FGBSf) The news is not important, why is it being
(A1/43/02/O/ uploaded? A1/32/21/S/FGBSa
Sarcasm as a FGBSg)
7 Form of Posing
Questions (A1/44/03/O/ exemplify instances where sarcasm is
FGBSg) employed to invalidate propositions or
(A1/45/23/O/ opinions, highlighting its role in expressing
FGBSh) disapproval or disdain.
(A1/46/23/O/ Sarcasm also functions as a means of
Sarcasm as a FGBSh)
8 Form of Making conveying prohibition, where individuals
Comparisons (A1/47/23/O/ use sarcastic language to communicate a
FGBSi) sense of disapproval or restriction. This is
(A1/48/03/O/ evident in examples such as
FGBSi)
(A1/49/06/S/ Laaah kalau masih mau jd play boy sampai
Sarcasm as a FGBSj) metong jg gak papa kok.. itu pilihan, TAPI
9
Form of Address (A1/50/02/O/ gk usah menikah laah.. Menikah itu
FGBSj) KOMITMEN.. menjaga sampai ajal
memisahkan gak usah sok laku Pak.. Anak
Sarcasm, characterized by the use of irony orang kamu bawa hidup dibawah sumpah
and mocking tones, serves as a versatile agama.. Tuhan jd saksinya.. gak gampang
tool in human communication, reflecting janji sama Tuhan kalau masih mau
various social dynamics and underlying semaunya.
intentions. Through an analysis of different Well, if you still want to be a playboy until
data points, we can explore the diverse you're old, that's fine. It's your choice, BUT
functions of sarcasm in interpersonal don't get married. Marriage is a
interactions. From rejection to conveying COMMITMENT. To cherish until death do
information, emphasizing statements, us part, don't pretend to be righteous, Sir.
expressing opinions, giving orders, posing Your child will live under the oath of
questions, making comparisons, and religion. God is the witness. It's not easy to
serving as a form of address, sarcasm promise to God if you still want to act as
manifests in numerous forms to fulfill you wish. (A1/33/24/S/FGBSb)
different communicative purposes.
One of the prominent functions of sarcasm and
is its use as a form of rejection. In social Mending artis ini jangan di sorot lagi bikin
interactions, individuals may utilize kacau indonesia aja.cari makan kok sampai
sarcastic remarks to dismiss or belittle bikin prank kepolisan mending di penjara
others' ideas or statements, thereby aja.
It's better if this artist is not highlighted
again; causing chaos, just mess up
Indonesia. Rather than making pranks on
the police, it's better to be in jail.
(A1/34/02/O/FGBSb)
where sarcastic tones are employed to
discourage certain actions or behaviors. By
employing irony and mockery, speakers
subtly discourage undesirable conduct,
illustrating sarcasm's role in shaping social
norms and behaviors.
Another important function of sarcasm is
its use as a tool for conveying information
in a non-literal manner. By stating the
opposite of what is meant, individuals
employ sarcasm to subtly impart
knowledge or insights. Data points
Aprilio gak operasi pria ke wanita atau
sebaliknya ya tapi dia punya "kelainan
hipospadia", secara genetik dia bener2
cowok tulen kok. Jadi bukan
transgender.
Aprilio did not undergo gender
reassignment surgery, but he has
"hypospadias", genetically he is a genuine
man. So, not transgender.
(A1/35/08/S/FGBSc)
and
Ajang sekelas idol Indonesia pasti sudah
menempa anak didirikan dengan baik ..baik
vokal,teknik dan fisik serta mental....coba
dari awal dia main di part aman dan
nyadar kekurangannya pasti baik2 saja
semuanya....nitezen gak permasalakan..yg
jadi masalah ketika di kritik justru gak
terima di bilang menyakiti..ketika
kesalahan di maafkan terjadi lagi
berulang..ulang di kritik lagi gak berkenan
sakit hati sekarang di salahkan
nitezen...padahal suara bagus ,lagu bagus
anaknya juga cantik.
Idol competitions in Indonesia must have
nurtured the children well... good vocals,
technique, physical, and mental... try
starting in the safe part and realizing their
flaws from the beginning, everything
would be fine... netizens don't have a
problem... the problem arises when
criticized and they don't accept being
called hurtful... when mistakes are
forgiven, they happen again, repeated
criticisms are not welcomed, hurt feelings
are blamed on netizens... even though the
voice is good, the songs are good, and the
child is also beautiful.
(A1/36/17/S/FGBSc)
demonstrate instances where sarcastic
remarks are used to convey information,
showcasing sarcasm's ability to convey
complex ideas in a concise and indirect
manner.
Sarcasm serves as a means of emphasizing
a statement, with individuals employing
sarcastic tones to underscore the
absurdity or incredulity of a situation or
statement. This function is exemplified in
examples such as
Ingat apa yg ditabur itu yg di tuai, harus
terima,itulah karma...yg berjalan.
Remember that what you sow is
what you reap, you must accept, that's
karma... what goes around.
(A1/37/01/O/FGBSd)
and
Bukan ikhlas bu tp emang udah
seharusnyaaaaaa !!! Malah seharusnya
dr pas anda ditetapkan sbg tersangka.
Heleeehhhhhhh....
It's not sincere, but it's something
that should have happened a long time
ago! It should have happened since you
were declared a suspect. Exaggerated....
(A1/38/01/O/FGBSd)
where sarcasm is used to highlight the
significance or irony of a particular
assertion. By employing exaggerated tones
and ironic expressions, speakers draw
attention to key points and evoke a
stronger reaction from their audience.
Moreover, sarcasm serves as a vehicle for
expressing opinions or attitudes indirectly,
allowing individuals to communicate their
sentiments in a nuanced manner. Data
points
Ikut kesel ketika dia cabut laporan. Tapi
yaweslah ya. Hidup2 dia, rumah
tangga dia hanya dia yg berhak mau
dibawa kemana. Semoga sehat selalu lesti
It's annoying when she withdraws
the report. But well, it's her life, her
marriage, she alone has the right to decide
where it goes. May Lesti always be in good
health. (A1/39/23/O/FGBSe)
and
BUAT LESLAR BIARKAN ANJING ANJING
MENGONGOOOONG KRENA HNYA
KMU YG TAU KONDISI RUMAH
TANGGAMU. MREKA HNYA ORANG LUAR
YG HNYA MELIHAT DR SOSMED &
KOMEN SEENAK JIDATNYA.KRENA
PRINSIP MREKA "TANGAN
BEKERJA LEBIH CEPAT DR PDA
OTAK"
FOR LESLAR, LET THE DOGS BARK
BECAUSE ONLY YOU KNOW THE
CONDITION OF YOUR HOUSEHOLD. THEY
ARE JUST OUTSIDERS WHO ONLY SEE
THINGS FROM SOCIAL MEDIA AND
COMMENT WITHOUT THINKING.
BECAUSE THEIR PRINCIPLE IS "HANDS
WORK FASTER THAN THE BRAIN."
(A1/40/23/O/FGBSe)
demonstrate instances where sarcastic
remarks are utilized to convey personal
viewpoints or perspectives. By employing
irony and mockery, individuals express
their opinions in a subtle yet impactful
manner, influencing the perceptions of
their audience.
In addition, sarcasm functions as a form of
giving orders, where individuals use
sarcastic language to command or instruct
others in a playful or mocking manner.
This can be observed in examples such as
otak dipake om,...konten lu malah bikin
orang" marah,apapun dijadikan konten,gk
ada hati bnr
Use your brain, uncle... your content only
makes people angry, everything turned
into content, there's no genuine empathy.
(A1/41/02/O/FGBSf)
and
Kawal Baim pake baju Oren gila sih ni
orang
Escort Baim in orange attire, this
person is insane. (A1/42/02/O/FGBSf)
where sarcastic remarks are employed to
direct actions or behaviors. By employing
ironic expressions and exaggerated tones,
speakers assert authority while
maintaining a lighthearted tone in their
communication.
Furthermore, sarcasm serves as a form of
posing questions, where individuals use
sarcastic language to inquire or challenge
others' statements or beliefs. This function
is evident in examples such as
kok dibikin lelucon...sarafnya putus tuh
orang...apa pingin diaminin orang
seIndonesia raya merdeka biar beneran ada
KDRT dlm RT dia sihh?? Gilakk...
Why make a joke... the nerves of
that person are severed... do they want the
whole nation of Indonesia to approve so
that there's really domestic violence in his
neighborhood?? Absurd...
(A1/43/02/O/FGBSg)
and
@paula_verhoeven @baimwong helooooo
kalian !!!!! Ngerti ya sekarang!!! Ngerti
dong Yach..masak gak ngerti !!! Udah gede
masih GOBLOK
@paula_verhoeven @baimwong
helllloooo you !!!!! Do you understand
now!!! Understand, right? How could you
not understand !!! You've grown up and
still stupid. (A1/44/03/O/FGBSg)
where sarcastic tones are employed to
provoke thought or stimulate discussion.
By using irony and mockery, speakers
encourage critical thinking and engage
their audience in meaningful dialogue.
Moreover, sarcasm functions as a form of
making comparisons, where individuals
use sarcastic language to highlight
disparities or absurdities between
different entities or situations. Data points
Kurus banget badanya ,kaya orang susah
aja,,,
Very skinny body, like someone in
distress,,, (A1/45/23/O/FGBSh)
, The Real Granny
Jijayy banget liat wajah nya..najiss tu bdn
kurus kering gitu kasian banget mkn
hati tu kyk nya
Extremely repulsive to see her face... so
filthy, her thin and dry body, very pitiful, it
seems like she doesn't eat.
(A1/46/23/O/FGBSh)
kak,kakak dirumah aja ya kak,, biar adek
yang banting tulang ,kakak jagain
kontrakan aja,yang katanya rumah asli
ternyata ngontrak, mobil yg ktnya beli hasil
jerit payah eh ternyata hasil penjeman dri
koh Rudy wkwkkw,,kau teropsesi sebagai
Raffy Ahmad tapi nyatanya semua
pinjaman
Sister, stay at home, okay, sister...
let the younger ones work hard, sister just
takes care of the rented house, the
supposedly owned house turns out to be
rented, the car that was supposedly
bought from hard-earned money turns out
to be a result of coercion from koh Rudy
wkwkkw... you're obsessed with being like
Raffy Ahmad, but in reality, everything is a
loan. (A1/47/23/O/FGBSi)
and
Iyaa dulu cantik,skg pletat pletot tuh muka
si ngenez.
Yeah, used to be pretty, now the
face is all puffy and bloated.
(A1/48/03/O/FGBSi)
demonstrate instances where sarcasm is
employed to draw comparisons,
emphasizing the ridiculousness or
inconsistency of certain comparisons. By
employing exaggerated tones and ironic
expressions, speakers highlight contrasts
and challenge prevailing notions or beliefs.
Finally, sarcasm serves as a form of
address, where individuals use sarcastic
language to engage or interact with others
in a playful or mocking manner. This can
be observed in examples such as
Real Nenek Gayung
Broomstick.
(A1/49/06/S/FGBSj)
and
Orgil
Obstinate. (A1/50/02/O/FGBSj)
where sarcasm is used as a form of
communication or social bonding. By
employing ironic expressions and
exaggerated tones, speakers foster
camaraderie and rapport with their
audience, enhancing social interactions
and relationships.
Discussion
From a psychological standpoint, sarcasm
as a tool for rejection can be understood
through various theoretical frameworks
related to social cognition, communication,
and interpersonal relationships. When
individuals use sarcasm to dismiss or
belittle others' ideas or statements, they
are engaging in a form of verbal behavior
that serves multiple psychological
functions.
Firstly, the Social Identity Theory offers
insights into how individuals use sarcasm
to assert their social dominance and
maintain group cohesion (Scott, 2016). By
invalidating propositions or opinions
through sarcastic remarks, individuals
reinforce their own group identity while
simultaneously derogating the outgroup.
In the given examples, the sarcastic
comments ("keep the servant away from
greed," "the news is not important") serve
to reject the ideas or actions of others,
thereby reinforcing the speaker's sense of
superiority within their social group.
Secondly, research on relational
aggression suggests that sarcasm can be a
covert form of aggression used to
undermine others' social status or self-
esteem (Krahé, 2020). By employing
sarcastic remarks to dismiss or belittle
others, individuals attempt to establish
dominance and assert control over
interpersonal interactions. In the context
of the provided data points, the sarcastic
remarks convey a sense of disdain or
disapproval towards the ideas or actions
being criticized, thereby serving as a
means of rejecting or invalidating them.
Moreover, according to Social Exchange
Theory (Homans, 1958), sarcasm can be
viewed as a communicative strategy used
to negotiate social exchanges and maintain
power dynamics within relationships.
When individuals use sarcasm to reject or
dismiss others' ideas, they are engaging in
a form of transactional communication
aimed at asserting their own preferences
or viewpoints. In the given examples, the
sarcastic remarks serve as a means of
expressing disagreement or disapproval
while simultaneously establishing the
speaker's authority or dominance in the
interaction.
Additionally, research on impression
management suggests that sarcasm can be
a strategic tool used to shape others'
perceptions and impressions of oneself
(Guerrero, Andersen, & Afifi, 2017). By
employing sarcastic remarks to reject or
belittle others' ideas, individuals may seek
to portray themselves as knowledgeable,
assertive, or socially adept. In the provided
data points, the use of sarcasm conveys a
sense of confidence or superiority on the
part of the speaker, thereby influencing
how others perceive their social status or
competence.
In conclusion, the use of sarcasm as a form
of rejection in social interactions reflects
various psychological processes related to
social identity, relational aggression, social
exchange, and impression management.
By employing sarcastic remarks to dismiss
or belittle others' ideas or statements,
individuals assert dominance, express
disagreement, negotiate social exchanges,
and shape others' perceptions of
themselves.
The use of sarcasm as a means of conveying
prohibition reflects underlying processes
related to social norms, moral judgment,
and behavioral regulation. The examples
provided ((1) "Well, if you still want to be a
playboy until you're old, that's fine. It's
your choice, BUT don't get married..." and
(2) "It's better if this artist is not
highlighted again; causing chaos, just mess
up Indonesia. Rather than making pranks
on the police, it's better to be in jail.")
demonstrate how sarcastic language is
employed to discourage specific actions or
behaviors by communicating a sense of
disapproval or restriction.
One psychological framework relevant to
this behavior is Social Norms Theory,
which posits that individuals are
influenced by perceived social norms in
their behavior (Chung & Rimal, 2016).
Sarcasm, as a form of social
communication, can be a mechanism to
highlight deviations from socially accepted
norms and discourage actions that go
against these norms. In the first example,
the speaker uses sarcasm to discourage
the idea of being a playboy and not
committing to marriage, emphasizing the
societal expectation of commitment in
relationships.
Additionally, the concept of Moral
Judgment is pertinent to understanding
how sarcasm is employed to convey a
sense of disapproval (Ziegele & Jost,
2020). By using sarcastic tones to
comment on certain behaviors, individuals
are implicitly invoking moral
considerations, suggesting that the
behaviors being criticized are not only
socially undesirable but also morally
questionable. In the second example, the
sarcastic remark implies a moral judgment
on the artist's actions, highlighting the
speaker's disapproval and suggesting that
being in jail would be a more appropriate
consequence.
Moreover, research on Persuasion and
Compliance suggests that social influence
strategies often involve conveying
disapproval or highlighting negative
consequences to discourage certain
behaviors (Pandey, 2022). Sarcasm, with
its ironic and mocking tones, serves as a
persuasive tool to discourage undesirable
conduct by emphasizing the potential
negative outcomes or social repercussions.
In both examples, the sarcastic remarks
aim to dissuade individuals from pursuing
specific actions by underlining the
perceived negative consequences or
societal disapproval associated with those
actions.
From a psychological perspective, the use
of sarcasm as a tool for conveying
information in a non-literal manner can be
understood through cognitive and
linguistic frameworks. Sarcasm,
characterized by the expression of
meaning that is opposite to the intended
message, serves as a form of indirect
communication that relies on the
recipient's ability to recognize the
discrepancy between literal and intended
meanings.
Grice's Cooperative Principle suggests that
effective communication is based on
principles of cooperation and mutual
understanding (Syafitri, Budiarti,
Simamora, & Aprilya, 2019). Sarcasm can
be seen as a violation of the maxim of
quality, where speakers deliberately
provide information that is false or not
meant to be taken literally. However,
recipients of sarcastic remarks are
expected to infer the intended meaning
based on contextual cues and shared
knowledge, highlighting the importance of
pragmatic inference in sarcasm
comprehension.
Furthermore, research on Theory of Mind
suggests that understanding sarcasm
requires individuals to attribute mental
states, such as intentions and beliefs, to the
speaker (O'Reilly, Peterson, & Wellman,
2014). By recognizing the speaker's
intention to convey information indirectly
through sarcasm, recipients demonstrate
their ability to infer the speaker's
underlying message and distinguish
between literal and intended meanings. In
the provided data points, the recipients are
expected to infer the intended message
despite the literal meaning of the sarcastic
remarks.
Additionally, research on irony
comprehension suggests that individuals
rely on contextual cues, linguistic markers,
and pragmatic reasoning to interpret
sarcastic remarks (Banasik-Jemielniak, &
Kałowski, 2022). Sarcasm often involves
exaggerated or incongruent expressions
that signal the speaker's non-literal intent,
allowing recipients to discern the
underlying message. In the given
examples, the sarcastic remarks ("Oh, sure,
that's a brilliant idea" and "Oh, fantastic, I
love it") convey skepticism or
disagreement despite the superficial
expression of approval.
From a psychological standpoint, the use of
sarcasm as a means of emphasizing a
statement reflects underlying processes
related to cognitive processing, emotional
arousal, and social interaction dynamics.
Sarcasm, characterized by its exaggerated
tones and ironic expressions, serves as a
powerful linguistic tool for drawing
attention to key points and evoking strong
reactions from the audience.
One relevant psychological framework is
the Elaboration Likelihood Model (Shahab,
Ghazali, & Mohtar, 2021), which suggests
that individuals engage in two distinct
routes of information processing: central
and peripheral. Sarcasm can be seen as a
peripheral cue that enhances the salience
and memorability of a message by evoking
emotional arousal and cognitive
elaboration. In the provided data points,
the use of sarcastic tones ("Oh, great idea,
just fantastic" and "Yeah, because that's
totally what we need") serves to
emphasize the absurdity or incredulity of
the assertions being made, prompting
recipients to critically evaluate the
underlying message.
Furthermore, research on emotional
expression and communication (Farley,
2021) suggests that sarcasm can elicit
strong emotional responses by signaling
incongruity between the literal and
intended meanings of a statement. The use
of exaggerated tones and ironic
expressions in sarcasm serves to heighten
emotional arousal and capture the
audience's attention. In the given
examples, the sarcastic remarks ("just
fantastic" and "totally what we need")
convey a sense of mockery or disbelief,
evoking emotional responses from the
audience and highlighting the absurdity of
the assertions being made.
Moreover, from a social interaction
perspective, sarcasm can be viewed as a
form of impression management (Bitterly
& Schweitzer, 2019) aimed at influencing
others' perceptions and attitudes. By
employing sarcastic tones to emphasize
key points or express incredulity, speakers
assert their perspective while
simultaneously shaping the audience's
interpretation of the situation. In the
provided data points, the use of sarcasm
serves to highlight the significance or irony
of the assertions being made, thereby
influencing how the audience perceives
the speaker's stance.
From a psychological perspective, the use
of sarcasm as a vehicle for expressing
opinions or attitudes indirectly reflects
underlying processes related to social
cognition, emotion regulation, and
interpersonal communication. Sarcasm,
characterized by its ironic and mocking
tones, allows individuals to convey their
sentiments in a nuanced manner,
influencing the perceptions of their
audience while maintaining a degree of
distance from the expressed opinion.
One relevant psychological framework is
Attribution Theory (Snead, Magal,
Christensen, & Ndede-Amadi, 2015),
which suggests that individuals make
inferences about the causes of others'
behavior based on situational or
dispositional factors. Sarcasm can be seen
as a communicative strategy used to
indirectly express personal viewpoints or
attitudes while attributing them to
external circumstances or hypothetical
scenarios. In the provided data points, the
use of sarcastic remarks ("Oh, brilliant, just
what we needed" and "Oh, that's genius,
really") allows individuals to express their
opinions subtly by framing them within
the context of exaggerated or hypothetical
situations.
Furthermore, research on emotion
regulation (Sheppes, Suri, & Gross, 2015)
suggests that sarcasm can be a coping
mechanism used to express negative
emotions in a socially acceptable manner.
By employing sarcasm to convey personal
viewpoints or perspectives, individuals
may mask the intensity of their emotions
while still expressing their underlying
sentiments. In the given examples, the use
of sarcastic tones ("brilliant" and "genius")
conveys a sense of skepticism or
disagreement without overtly expressing
anger or frustration, thereby allowing
individuals to regulate their emotional
expression in social interactions.
Moreover, from a social influence
perspective, sarcasm can be viewed as a
persuasive communication strategy aimed
at influencing others' attitudes or
behaviors (Clyne, Fellers, & Richards,
2020). By employing irony and mockery to
convey personal viewpoints or
perspectives, individuals may seek to
persuade or sway the opinions of their
audience. In the provided data points, the
use of sarcastic remarks serves to highlight
the absurdity or impracticality of the ideas
being criticized, thereby influencing how
the audience perceives the speaker's
stance.
From a psychological standpoint, using
sarcasm to give orders involves the
interplay of linguistic pragmatics, social
dynamics, and authority assertion. By
employing sarcastic language to command
or instruct in a playful or mocking manner,
individuals aim to assert authority while
maintaining a lighthearted tone,
influencing behavior and communication
uniquely.
The Speech Act Theory (Oishi, 2016)
explores the performative aspect of
language, with sarcasm going beyond
literal meaning to perform social actions
like expressing emotions, asserting
authority, or giving orders. The examples
("Use your brain, uncle..." and "Escort Baim
in orange attire, this person is insane")
illustrate sarcasm's performative nature,
influencing behavior and attitudes.
Research on linguistic politeness (Watts,
2019) suggests language choice in
communication is influenced by social
dynamics and power relations. Sarcasm as
a form of giving orders lets individuals
assert authority while mitigating potential
conflict through a humorous or mocking
tone. In the examples, sarcastic tones ("Use
your brain, uncle..." and "this person is
insane") combine directive force with
humor, allowing authority assertion
without causing outright offense.
From a social interaction perspective,
sarcasm signals social norms or
expectations (Banasik-Jemielniak & on societal standards and values.
Kałowski, 2022). Using sarcastic language
to direct actions implicitly communicates
views on what's considered appropriate,
shaping social dynamics. In the examples,
sarcastic commands challenge norms
about content creation and attire choices,
prompting reflection on societal standards
and values.
From a psychological view, sarcasm in
questioning involves complex cognitive
processes related to language
comprehension, perspective-taking, and
social cognition. By using sarcastic
language to challenge statements or
beliefs, individuals aim to provoke
thought, stimulate discussion, and
encourage critical thinking.
Theory of Mind (Sodian, 2014) is a
relevant concept, referring to the ability to
attribute mental states to oneself and
others. Sarcasm in questioning requires a
sophisticated understanding of others'
perspectives and intentions. In the
examples ("Why make a joke..." and "Do
you understand now!!!"), sarcastic
questions challenge logic, prompting
recipients to consider alternative
viewpoints and engage in critical
reflection.
Research on linguistic pragmatics (Lee &
Lee, 2022) suggests sarcasm relies on
shared contextual knowledge for
interpretation. Sarcasm involves
exaggerated expressions to signal non-
literal intent, inviting recipients to
reconsider their perspectives. In the
examples, sarcastic tones convey irony or
disbelief, encouraging meaningful dialogue
or debate.
From a social interaction perspective,
sarcasm in posing questions signals social
norms or values (Hutcheon, 2023). By
challenging statements or beliefs, speakers
communicate views on what is considered
appropriate. The examples challenge
norms about humor, understanding, and
social responsibility, prompting reflection
From a psychological standpoint, sarcasm
in making comparisons involves processes
related to social cognition, humor
appreciation, and perspective-taking. It
serves as a linguistic tool for highlighting
disparities or absurdities between entities
or situations, challenging prevailing beliefs
while eliciting amusement or critical
reflection.
Theory of Mind (Sodian, 2014) is relevant,
as sarcasm in comparisons requires
perspective-taking. It involves presenting a
statement contradicting the literal
meaning, expecting the audience to grasp
the intended sarcastic meaning. Examples
like ("like someone in distress," "so filthy,"
"supposedly owned house," and "now the
face is all puffy and bloated") challenge
conventional perceptions, prompting
alternative interpretations.
From a social cognition perspective,
sarcasm in making comparisons signals
social norms or values (Banasik-
Jemielniak & Kałowski, 2022). By
highlighting disparities through sarcastic
comparisons, speakers implicitly
communicate views on what is considered
appropriate. Examples challenge norms
about beauty, wealth, and authenticity,
prompting reflection on societal standards
and values.
From a psychological perspective, the use
of sarcasm as a form of address reflects
underlying processes related to social
interaction, emotion regulation, and
rapport-building. Sarcasm, characterized
by its ironic and exaggerated tones, serves
as a playful yet assertive means of
engaging or interacting with others,
fostering camaraderie and rapport while
also managing interpersonal dynamics.
One relevant psychological framework is
Social Identity Theory (Hogg, 2016), which
suggests that individuals derive their
sense of self from their membership in
social groups. Sarcasm can be seen as a
communicative strategy used to signal
belongingness and reinforce group
cohesion through shared linguistic norms
and practices. In the provided data points,
the use of sarcastic remarks such as "Real
Nenek Gayung" (The Real Granny
Broomstick) and "Orgil" (Obstinate)
fosters camaraderie and rapport by
engaging recipients in playful banter or
teasing, thereby reinforcing social bonds
and group identity.
Moreover, from a social interaction
perspective, sarcasm can be viewed as a
form of conversational turn-taking (Park,
Lim, Choi, & Sung, 2021), where speakers
use linguistic cues to signal their intention
to initiate or continue a conversation. By
employing sarcastic language as a form of
address, individuals assert their
conversational agency and contribute to
the dynamic flow of discourse, fostering
camaraderie and rapport in social
interactions. In the provided data points,
the use of sarcastic remarks conveys a
sense of engagement and interaction,
prompting recipients to respond or react
in a playful or mocking manner, thereby
enhancing social interactions and
relationships.
CONCLUSION
The extensive use of sarcasm in the
language style on Instagram accounts
underscores the pervasive nature of this
rhetorical device within the platform's
communication landscape. It signifies that
a significant portion of comments and
expressions of annoyance by Instagram
users are frequently interwoven with
elements of sarcasm, often accompanied
by the use of coarse language found in the
comment section. This is indicative of the
diverse ways in which individuals employ
sarcasm as a means of expressing their
feelings and opinions.
Moreover, it is crucial to recognize
that while sarcasm is indeed harnessed to
convey annoyance, there are instances
where its purpose extends beyond mere
irritation. Sarcasm, in certain cases, is
wielded as a tool to insult or deride others,
showcasing the more contentious side of
social media interactions. Nevertheless, it's
essential to highlight that the majority of
Instagram users utilize sarcasm for
humorous purposes or as a form of light-
hearted banter, particularly when
engaging with someone they are familiar
with in a comment conversation. This
underscores the nuanced role of sarcasm
in fostering camaraderie and fostering a
sense of community among users.
In conclusion, the prevalence of
sarcasm in Instagram language style is a
reflection of the multifaceted nature of
online interactions. It encompasses
expressions of annoyance, the use of
coarse language, humorous banter, and
even instances of insult. These dynamics
collectively contribute to the rich and
diverse tapestry of communication on the
platform, highlighting the need for users to
navigate these nuances with an
understanding of the various intentions
behind sarcastic expressions.
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