From the greek meaning "to tear flesh," involves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something. it may use irony as a device.

What causes mrs. x to become vulnerable as she speaks to miss y? a. miss y’s responses make mrs. x self-conscious about her abilities as an actress. b. miss y’s nonverbal cues make mrs. x realize that miss y has a relationship with her husband. c. miss y’s lack of eye contact makes miss c feel that she isn’t a good friend. d. miss y’s disinterest in mrs. ax’s christmas gift causes her to feel weak.