Literary notes about sneering (AI summary)
The word sneering often appears in literature to instantly convey an air of disdain and scorn, whether through a character's tone, facial expression, or even inner attitude. It can suggest a quiet, derisive mockery, as when a character’s sneering grin hints at superiority and dismissal ([1]), or a more overt expression of contempt, evident in biting, cold tones that unsettle both characters and readers alike ([2], [3]). In some instances, the sneer is intertwined with cynicism and defiance—a verbal weapon used to challenge or undermine others, as seen in a caustic retort that exposes the speaker’s contempt for societal norms ([4]). Through such vivid portrayals, sneering emerges as a versatile literary tool that deepens character interactions and heightens dramatic tension.