I'm torn in situations like these, because OP is clearly furthering societal trends that are objectively harmful by watering down terminology like this.

It is snark, but it is immune-response snark and not petty snark.

One shouldn't crush them for it, as it might be driven by naivety, but soft politeness alone doesn't steer us away from harmful ideas.

Social friction caused by feeling stupid for saying something is an important tool if wielded with responsibility and not just swung for ego.