verbal jab
Sharp spoken dig
A verbal jab is a quick, pointed remark meant to criticize or provoke—the conversational equivalent of a short punch in boxing.
Unlike sustained argument, a jab is brief and sharp: She got in a verbal jab about his failed business before changing the subject.
The term implies calculated aggression disguised as casual comment.
- quipBrief, clever remark
- barbBackward-pointing spike
- digUnearth by shoveling
- throwing shadeSubtle public disparagement
- snarkCutting, mocking commentary
zinger · sick burn · retort · taunt · cheap shot · low blow · insult · comeback · cutting · cutting remark · sharp · sharp tongue · wit · biting · sarcasm · backhanded compliment · remark · crack
- mockerymockery, ridiculing, jeers, jeering, jibes
- tauntstaunts, taunt, taunting, neener neener, insults
- verbal jabsinsult, burn, dis, roast, slam
- low blowscheap shot, low blow, sucker punch, below the belt, hit below the belt
- snarksarcasm, snark, barb, dig, zinger
- witticismsquips, witticisms, witticism, bon mots, bon mot
intent/effect
verbal jabcompliment
Words expressing approval
praise · affirmation · flattery · reassurance · blessing
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