ridicule

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 嘲 expresses mocking or ridiculing someone; 嘲る is read あざける.
• Basic usage: 努力する人を嘲る means mocking someone who is making an effort.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• When the target is oneself
  • 自嘲, read じちょう, means self-mockery or a self-deprecating attitude.
  • 自嘲気味に語った means that someone spoke with a hint of self-mockery. 気味 marks that tinge in the attitude, distinguishing it from simply telling something with a cheerful laugh.