Translation

辛辣な / 刺すような / 手厳しい

Meaning

Acerbic describes speech, writing, or humor that is sharp, critical, and biting. It is stronger than direct and usually suggests wit mixed with harshness.

Examples

• 彼女の辛辣な書評は作家を怒らせた。
  Her acerbic review angered the author.
• 彼は会議で手厳しいが的確なコメントをした。
  He made an acerbic but accurate comment in the meeting.