a jest

USAGE SUMMARY

"a jest" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a joke or comment meant to be funny and lighthearted. For example, "He responded with a jest, but his coworkers weren't laughing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

In the Nicomachean Ethics (4, 8) he warns that "Most people enjoy amusement and jesting more than they should … a jest is a kind of mockery, and lawgivers forbid some kinds of mockery perhaps they ought to have forbidden some kinds of jesting".

SEP

But history likes a jest.

The Economist

"Life is a jest / And all things show it," the cameraman says at the play's coda.

The New Yorker

Life is a jest, and all things show it; I thought so once, and now I know it.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Defining what constitutes merely a jest and what is of a "menacing character" has not been easy for the judges.

The Guardian

Bear in mind what Falstaff says at the end of Verdi's opera: "Everything in the world is a jest.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

In his dictionary Johnson defines "conundrum" as a low jest; a quibble; a mean conceit.

The Guardian - Books

The yellowfin tuna burger was a charming jest: a miniature brioche bun held slices of tuna and foie gras; tomatillo chutney stood in for ketchup.

The New York Times

"A macabre jest," mutters an embarrassed Otto Schily.

The Economist

In any case, the vignerons were at the Crush Wine Company in Midtown Manhattan when my friend, a doctor, made an innocent jest to Joe that drew such a harsh bark in response that her tears flowed.

The New York Times

His confirmation hearing included a reminder of an indulgent jest he once made about the Ku Klux Klan.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a jest", consider the context and audience to ensure the humor is appropriate and well-received. A poorly timed or insensitive jest can be offensive.

Common error

Avoid using "a jest" to describe situations involving serious or sensitive topics. The phrase implies lightheartedness and can trivialize important matters.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a jest" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, highlighting its reference to lighthearted humor. For instance, "It began with jokes about who asked who to partner whom, and continued with a jest about how many times Jankovic had kissed Murray at the end of their victories."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a jest" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase. As Ludwig AI points out, it's employed to indicate a joke or lighthearted comment and, while suitable for a range of contexts, is most frequently encountered in News & Media. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the audience and context to ensure that the intended humor is perceived appropriately. Alternatives such as "a joke" or "a prank" can be used depending on the specific nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a joke

This is the most direct synonym, referring to something said or done to cause amusement.

a prank

Implies a playful trick or mischievous act.

a gag

Refers to a humorous story or anecdote.

a hoax

This refers to a trick or deception, often more elaborate than a simple joke.

a trick

Implies a cunning act designed to deceive or amuse.

a pun

Refers to a play on words, using different meanings of the same word.

a charade

Suggests a pretense or deceptive act, often for amusement.

a bit of banter

Indicates light-hearted and playful conversation.

a tease

Implies playful mockery or gentle provocation.

a lark

Suggests a carefree and frivolous activity done for amusement.

FAQs

How can I use "a jest" in a sentence?

You can use "a jest" to describe a remark or action intended to be amusing. For example, "His comment was intended as "a jest", but it fell flat".

What are some alternatives to "a jest"?

Alternatives to "a jest" include "a joke", "a prank", or "a bit of banter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a jest" in formal writing?

While "a jest" is grammatically correct, it's generally more suitable for informal or creative writing. In formal contexts, consider using more neutral terms like "humor" or "amusement".

What's the difference between "a jest" and "a joke"?

While similar, "a jest" often implies a more subtle or witty form of humor than "a joke". A jest might be a playful remark, while a joke is typically a structured narrative with a punchline.