double entendre

USAGE SUMMARY

"double entendre" can be used in written English.
This figure of speech is often used to add humor to a sentence. For example, when talking about a teacher's strict demeanor, you could say "Miss Smith's lectures are no laughing matter...unless you have a keen sense of double entendre."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

(Double entendre, that).

The New York Times - Books

Was the double entendre deliberate?

The New York Times - Magazine

A classic Cocker double entendre.

The Guardian - Music

And others use double entendre purposefully.

The New York Times

Supply your own double entendre here.

The New York Times

(Eventually "Wise" makes a decent double entendre).

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

But he began with a poignant and pointed double-entendre.

The New York Times

An extended double-entendre riff about a donkey is sophomoric.

The New York Times

Forgive it the too-cute double-entendre name.

The New York Times - Food

Woah, Debi, love, that isn't a playful double-entendre.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

As Schultz says: "There's a double-entendre there.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using a "double entendre", be mindful of your audience and the context to avoid unintended offense or misinterpretations. Effective use relies on subtlety and wit.

Common error

Avoid stating the second meaning of a "double entendre" explicitly. The humor often lies in the audience's realization of the alternative interpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "double entendre" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a phrase or expression with two meanings. Ludwig shows that it's often used to describe intentional wordplay.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "double entendre" is a common noun phrase that describes an expression with two meanings, often one being risqué or suggestive. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It frequently appears in News & Media and Academia as source types. To wield this phrase effectively, ensure the second meaning is implied rather than explicitly stated, and be aware of your audience to avoid misinterpretations. Alternatives include "innuendo", "double meaning", and "suggestive remark". Understanding the nuances of "double entendre" can add depth to your communication and analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

double meaning

A more straightforward and literal way to express the concept of having two interpretations.

innuendo

Focuses on the suggestive or veiled nature of the hidden meaning.

suggestive remark

Emphasizes the subtle and often risqué nature of the hidden meaning.

hidden meaning

Focuses on the presence of a secondary, less obvious interpretation.

ambiguous statement

Refers to a statement with unclear meaning, highlighting the lack of a single interpretation.

ambiguous phrasing

Highlights the construction of the phrase itself as contributing to multiple interpretations.

equivocal expression

Highlights the uncertainty and potential for misinterpretation inherent in the phrase.

veiled implication

Emphasizes the subtle and indirect manner in which the secondary meaning is conveyed.

pun

Specifically refers to a play on words that exploits different possible meanings of a word or the fact that there are words which sound alike but have different meanings.

wordplay

A broader term encompassing various techniques of using words in a clever or humorous way.

FAQs

How is a "double entendre" used in a sentence?

A "double entendre" is used to create a humorous or suggestive effect by employing a phrase with two distinct meanings. For instance, a seemingly innocent statement might carry a hidden, often risqué, implication.

What is the difference between a "double entendre" and an "innuendo"?

A "double entendre" is a specific type of innuendo that relies on a phrase having two distinct meanings, one of which is often suggestive. Innuendo, on the other hand, is a more general term for any indirect or subtle suggestion, which may not always involve a phrase with two clear meanings.

What are some examples of "double entendre" in literature?

Shakespeare is famous for his use of "double entendre", particularly in comedies like A Midsummer Night's Dream. Many jokes and puns in his plays rely on words and phrases with both innocent and suggestive interpretations.

Which is correct, using a "double entendre" intentionally or unintentionally?

A "double entendre" can be used intentionally for comedic effect, or it can occur unintentionally. Intentionally used "double entendres" are generally more effective when well-crafted, while unintentional ones can sometimes lead to humorous or awkward situations.