Pronunciation: /ɛr kwots/
noun a pair of quotation marks made in the air with one's fingers to indicate that the enclosed text should be understood as being ironic or otherwise non-literal
A1 She used 'air quotes' when saying the word 'diet'.
A2 The comedian added 'air quotes' to his joke to emphasize the punchline.
B1 During the presentation, the speaker used 'air quotes' to clarify the technical terms.
B2 The politician's use of 'air quotes' during the debate caused controversy among the audience.
C1 The professor's frequent use of 'air quotes' in the lecture demonstrated his sarcastic tone.
C2 The lawyer strategically used 'air quotes' to cast doubt on the witness's testimony.
formal During the presentation, the speaker used air quotes to emphasize certain key terms.
informal She always does this thing with her fingers when she's talking, like air quotes or something.
slang I can't stand it when people use air quotes like they're too cool for regular words.
figurative His apology seemed insincere, as if he was using air quotes around the words 'I'm sorry'.
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