a witty remark

USAGE SUMMARY

'a witty remark' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a humorous comment made by someone. For example: The comedian's a witty remark about politics made the audience roar with laughter.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

As a comparison, is it possible to imagine any commentator under any circumstances quoting a witty remark of Hitler's?

The New Yorker

Whatever in conversation does not make sense to her in plain, human terms she will quickly dismiss with a witty remark.

The New Yorker

It was, indeed, a witty remark of the Spartan21 who bought a little fish in an inn Cand gave it to the innkeeper to prepare.

University of Chicago

To top it, Murali Kartik, who hosted the post-match presentation, surprisingly did not ask a single question whatsoever regarding the unfortunate episode which unfolded during the final over, even when Dhoni hinted at it through a witty remark.

Forbes

Everyone becomes distilled down to a hot body or a witty remark and the totality of the person is lost.

Huffington Post

The missed opportunity for a witty remark and the dismissed gut twinge that provided that imminent smack down in quick time.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The novelist Reggie Turner was, most people agreed, the wittiest talker of the eighteen-nineties, not a bad vintage for witty talkers; when he eventually got a biography, not a single witty remark remained, and his life sank with his Life.

The New Yorker

He brings everyone back to reality, often with a dry, witty remark or taking a dig at somebody just to sort of bring people back down".

Wikipedia

She can take a joke if you poke fun at her flirtatiously, but you better expect her to have a cutting, witty remark to make back at you! Know that she can be a bit immature.

WikiHow

It was in this connexion that one of them, Vibius Crispus, uttered a very witty remark.

University of Chicago

On this point Lucius Junius Gallius, the brother of Seneca, was the author of a very witty remark.

University of Chicago

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a witty remark" to introduce a lighthearted or humorous tone in your writing. Ensure the remark is genuinely clever and appropriate for the context.

Common error

Avoid peppering your writing with too many "witty remarks", as this can detract from the main message and make your writing seem forced or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a witty remark" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It describes a type of statement or comment characterized by cleverness and humor. Ludwig confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

22%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a witty remark" is a noun phrase used to describe a clever and humorous statement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While the phrase is not extremely common, it appears most frequently in news and media sources, with applications spanning wiki entries and academic writing. Related phrases include "a clever comment" and "a humorous observation". When using this phrase, ensure that the remark is genuinely witty and appropriate for the context, while avoiding overuse. It is a great way to break the ice at the beginning of a speech and a few jokes peppered throughout can help keep the audience's attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clever quip

Emphasizes the concise and amusing nature of the remark.

a clever comment

Focuses on the intelligence and ingenuity of the statement.

a funny line

Highlights the humorous quality of the statement, suitable for informal contexts.

a humorous observation

Highlights the comedic and perceptive nature of the statement.

a brilliant jest

Highlights the high level of intelligence and humor in the remark.

a droll comment

Emphasizes a dry, understated sense of humor.

a sparkling repartee

Implies a quick, witty exchange between two or more people.

a facetious statement

Implies a lighthearted and often playful insincerity.

an amusing aside

Refers to a brief, entertaining comment that is not the main subject of discussion.

a sharp retort

Suggests a quick, intelligent, and often cutting response.

FAQs

How can I use "a witty remark" in a sentence?

You can use "a witty remark" to describe a clever and humorous statement, for example: "She diffused the tension with "a witty remark" about the situation."

What are some alternatives to "a witty remark"?

Alternatives include "a clever comment", "a humorous observation", or "a sharp retort", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to include "a witty remark" in formal writing?

While "a witty remark" can add personality to writing, it's generally best reserved for informal or creative contexts. In formal writing, prioritize clarity and directness.

What makes a remark "witty"?

A witty remark is characterized by its cleverness, humor, and often its ability to reveal an unexpected insight or connection. It typically demonstrates intelligence and quick thinking.