assume, presume, suppose, take as read, take as given, take at face value, accept, believe, trust, count on, rely on, expect, take to be true, take without questioning, take as a matter of course, tak... [more]
sharp - biting - caustic - cutting - harsh - severe - bitter - acrid - astringent - mordant - trenchant - scathing - sarcastic - sardonic - acid - tart - pungent - incisive - keen - vitriolic - acerb - acrimonious - pointed - barbed - stinging - withering - wounding - hurtful - cruel - unkind - mean - spiteful - malicious - venomous - toxic - nasty - snide - scornful - contemptuous - derisive - mocking - sneering - jeering - taunting - jabbing - jarring
Acerbic refers to a style of speaking or writing that is sharp, direct, and often critical. It conveys a sense of bitterness or cutting sarcasm. People with an acerbic tongue or manner can come across as harsh or abrasive, but their comments are usually insightful and pointed. This term is often used to describe witty or clever criticism that has a biting edge to it.