This fact is well recognized by The Sarcasm Society - a group who are dedicated to furthering the cause of sarky people everywhere through their website.

Their elaborate newbie charter lays out the criteria for membership and restricts what sarcasm tools can be used by members depending on seniority - whether it be the evil grin, sly eyebrow or furtive look.

Yet, all their efforts could be in vain. After all, sarcasm is an inherent trait best practised by those who know and not to easily taught.

Take Groucho Marx - one of the most successfully sarcastic men of all time - who didn’t need a Society to assist him - when coining hundreds of classic quips like this one -

I didn't like the play, but then I saw it under adverse conditions - the curtain was up