pointed remark

Sharp spoken criticism

A pointed remark is a comment deliberately aimed at someone or something, often with critical or barbed intent.

The remark may seem innocuous on the surface but carries an unmistakable edge: She made a pointed remark about people who show up late.

The "point" suggests precision—the speaker knows exactly where they're directing the words.

Related
  • barbBackward-pointing spike
  • jabQuick, straight blow
  • verbal jabPointed spoken attack
  • digUnearth by shoveling
  • snipeHidden-position shooting

throwing shade · quip · cutting · sharp · sharp tongue · biting · sarcasm · wit · sting · needle · taunt · zinger · retort · caustic · acerbic · wry · subtle · tongue

Categories
Opposites
communicative intent

pointed remarkcompliment

Words expressing approval

praise · flattery · affirmation · encouragement · accolade

directness and specificity

pointed remarksmall talk

Polite trivial conversation

circumlocution · beating around the bush

emotional tone

pointed remarkhoneyed words

Pleasing but manipulative speech

Family

point, pointed, remark, points, pointing, pointer, pointers, pointy, pointless

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated G