under"She's famous in the office for her caustic wit."

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Peaceblinkfriend

#545404 Wed, 23 Jul 08 12:40 PM

She's famous in the office for her caustic wit.

Would you say whether there is a pejorative or praising overtone in the use of the word 'caustic'?

Thank you

PBF

PS Would you use the words 'pejorative' and 'praising' to form the question? And what do you think about the way I asked this question? Would a native speaker ask a question this way? Thank you again.

Peaceblinkfriend

Joined on Wed, May 9 2007

Australia

Contributing Member (1,578)

Marius Hancu

#545408 Wed, 23 Jul 08 01:04 PM

Neutral, a bit positive in terms of "wit," a bit negative in terms of "caustic"

Marius Hancu

Joined on Wed, Apr 26 2006

Montreal, Canada

Veteran Member (11,673)

Negatives

Grammar Geek

#545426 Wed, 23 Jul 08 01:34 PM

A native might say "Do you think he meant that as a compliment or as a slam?"

Grammar Geek

Joined on Tue, Jan 10 2006

Pennsylvania, USA

Veteran Member (15,595)

Barbara, who answers in American English.

nona the brit

#545629 Wed, 23 Jul 08 11:19 PM

Or 'is that good or bad?'

Generally I think caustic would be a bit negative as it means that it hurts people. On the other hand, some people might admire this as 'wit' is generally a good thing, and some people enjoy slightly cruel wittiness.