Why don't Americans understand sarcasm?

And why do I hear them referring to it as "British" sarcasm, when the rest of the world knows what sarcasm is, not just the British? In Australia it's a high art form, perfected over many generations to the point where we can use it to squash all those (allegedly) dangerous animals that you people think we have.

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TheHammer · M

What do you mean you people??

DLight

@TheHammer Yanks, Seppos.

HijabaDabbaDoo · F

I think the divide is in the fact it sounds more cruel to them and because they're more isolated culturally than other countries who are closer in proximity and seem to integrate more, it doesn't always translate well. Obviously there's sarcasm, just not the same flavour lol (with exceptions)

Australian banter is on par with British.

Waveney · M

@HijabaDabbaDoo I remember when I was younger in the UK, I was working in a train station behind the ticket desk. Occasionally I would joke with the customers. One thing I said was something along the lines of "The ticket's free but the receipt costs (the price)! Very British, got a laugh.

One American, who I misread, went off his nut. He said, and I quote "What? The ticket's free but the receipt's £35?? What kind of cockamamie idea is this??!" He was not amused when I said it was a joke.

They don't get sarcasm.

UKNaturist · M

I speak to someone on here from America and they both get it and use it. Therefore your question doesn't apply to all Americans

legalboxers · M

I as one dont get it, nor like it.

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