揶揄(やゆ)

揶揄(やゆ) is a formal, literary word for mockery or ridicule. It implies making fun of someone or something in a pointed, sometimes subtle way — often with an undertone of contempt or criticism.

Usage

More literary and formal than 馬鹿(ばか)にする (to make a fool of) or からかう (to tease). Frequently appears in journalism, essays, and online commentary.

Common collocations

• 揶揄(やゆ)する: to ridicule, to mock
• 揶揄(やゆ)を込(こ)めて: mockingly, with derision
• 揶揄(やゆ)の対象(たいしょう): object of ridicule
• 揶揄(やゆ)される: to be ridiculed

Similar words

• からかう: to tease (lighter, often playful)
• 嘲笑(ちょうしょう): scornful laughter (harsher)
• 皮肉(ひにく): sarcasm, irony (indirect criticism)