Jest
What it means
A playful remark or act intended to amuse rather than wound.
Reach for it when naming gentle humor when the harmless intention and effect are clear
Her quiet jest eased the awkward silence.
Words to choose between 6
| playful | |
|---|---|
| everyday | |
| warm | |
| formal | |
| literary |
|
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playful
wisecrack
Fits when quick irreverent humor suits the group
Careful Wisecrack often interrupts or targets someone and is less gentle.
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everyday
banter
Fits when several people exchange playful remarks
Careful Banter is reciprocal and can conceal pressure or exclusion.
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everyday
Fits when the familiar general word for intended amusement fits
Careful Joke can be elaborate, crude, or hostile, while jest often sounds lighter and older.
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warm
tease
Fits when affectionate provocation occurs within a trusting relationship
Careful Teasing is unsafe when the target cannot comfortably object.
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formal
witticism
Fits when verbal cleverness deserves a polished label
Careful Witticism sounds evaluative and stronger than an ordinary jest.
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literary
Fits when a brief clever remark is the form
Careful A quip emphasizes wit and may carry a sharper edge.
Opposites 3
- seriousness
- insult
- rebuke
Common phrases 3
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in jest
He offered the title in jest and withdrew it when it caused confusion.
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gentle jest
A gentle jest helped the speakers reset after the microphone failed.
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make a jest
She would never make a jest of another person's accent.
Usage notes
Keep in mind
Intent does not make a jest harmless. The listener's dignity and ability to decline the humor matter.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Dvortygirl, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated