Caustic
mediumNegative toneKAW-stik
adjective
Definition
bitingly sarcastic or sharply critical (also chemically corrosive)
Memory hook
CAUSTIC sounds like 'cost-stick': a remark so burning it COSTs you, sticking like acid.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Her caustic review left the playwright reeling for weeks.”
“He delivered his caustic verdict with a thin, knowing smile.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Her ______ review left the playwright reeling for weeks.”
Show answer
caustic
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Caustic is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "scathing" or "biting" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "bland".
Related GRE Words
vitriolic
Filled with bitter criticism or malice
grandiloquent
pompous or inflated in language; using lofty, bombastic speech
admonish
To warn or reprimand someone firmly
allude
To suggest or call attention to indirectly; to hint at
allusion
An indirect reference, especially to something in literature or history
apprise
To inform or tell someone about something
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