Word: mockery (noun)

Associations

Mockery refers to teasing or making fun of someone or something in a way that is often cruel or disrespectful.

• Example 1: "She laughed in mockery at his failed attempt to sing." (In this example, the laughter shows that she is being unkind about his singing.)
• Example 2: "The comedian's act was filled with mockery of popular culture." (Here, the comedian makes fun of things many people know, using humor.)
• Example 3: "His mockery of the rules led to serious consequences." (This shows that mocking the rules can lead to problems.)

A well-known synonym for mockery is "ridicule." The main difference is that ridicule can be more general and includes any form of scorn, while mockery often implies that the teasing is done in a more playful or sarcastic way.

Substitution

You can use other words/phrases in place of mockery, such as:

• Teasing: This is usually lighter and not as harsh as mockery.
• Derision: This word implies stronger scorn and disrespect.
• Sarcasm: This involves saying the opposite of what you mean, often with mockery.

Deconstruction

The word "mockery" comes from the root word "mock," which means to imitate in a way that shows scorn.

• "Mock" comes from Old French "mocquer," meaning to deride.
• The suffix "-ery" indicates a state or condition, meaning "the act of mocking."

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when you saw or experienced mockery? How did it make you feel?
• In what situations do you think mockery is inappropriate?
• How might mockery differ in tone and meaning in different cultures or languages?