jocularly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "jocularly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something done in a joking or playful manner. Example: "He jocularly suggested that we should all wear silly hats to the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Mr Burke was jocularly known as "Haughey's Rottweiler", while Mr Haughey once famously described Mr Ahern as "the most cunning, the most devious and the most dangerous of them all", a compliment (it was said) that Mr Ahern has long sought to live down.

The Economist

Five minutes afterwards the Earl of Aberdeen arrived, and asked, with some apparent anxiety, whether the gallant Duke had arrived, and on being informed that he was at that time inspecting the train, jocularly remarked, in allusion, doubtless, to his Grace's proverbial punctuality, "God bless my soul, I thought I should have been before him this morning".DEPARTURE OF THE ROYAL FAMILY FOR BRIGHTON.

The Economist

He suspected, however, that his Arab hosts might be torturing Captus when he was not there.Against his wishes, he and Captus were sent to a much grimmer establishment, which the author jocularly calls Hotel California, in a desolate part of what is clearly Afghanistan.

The Economist

NOT far from the Sheraton Hotel in the Retiro district of Buenos Aires there is another building jocularly known to locals by the same name, where beds are available for a more modest fee.

The Economist

VOLODYA, Vova (jocularly); Vovka, Vovochka (lovingly); Vovik, Vovchik (irreverently); Vladimir Vladimirovich (respectfully); or just plain VVP (enigmatically): whatever they call him, there is no mistaking whom Russians are talking about.

The Economist

He added: "It had an inscription on it which was meant jocularly but was taken many other ways.

Independent

It began with an unflinching critique of the conduct of the person on the other end of the line, shifted to a freighted suggestion that if things continued in this manner their relationship would have to change, and concluded with a jocularly dismissive invitation to be trounced at golf.

The New Yorker

One day, he tweeted about the television show "Gossip Girl," and Phelps-Roper responded jocularly about one of its characters.

The New Yorker

Well," he says jocularly — as, indeed, he says everything that he says, "this is kinda the tamer version".... Ming's down-to-earth, frat-boy charm draws more than a thousand fan E-mails every month from men, women, and even kids.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Apparently the CIA, in the know if never in the driving seat, lost faith in its would-be perpetrators and decided for the sake of oil to cosy up to Mr Obiang after it all went wrong.Mr Mann says he has not read the authoritative account of "the Wonga coup", as it soon half-jocularly became known, by Adam Roberts, an Economist colleague of this reviewer.

The Economist

Mr. Motl still refers to Dr. Witten, only half-jocularly, as "the flying god knowing everything".

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "jocularly" to add a lighthearted or humorous tone to your writing, particularly when describing how someone said or did something. It is best suited for contexts where the intent is to be amusing rather than serious.

Common error

Avoid using "jocularly" in highly formal or serious contexts where humor is inappropriate. It can undermine the gravity of the situation and make your writing seem disrespectful or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "jocularly" modifies a verb or clause, describing the manner in which an action is performed. It indicates that something is said or done in a humorous or playful way. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and usability of this term.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adverb "jocularly" is used to describe actions or statements made in a lighthearted, humorous manner. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is valid and suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in news and media where a touch of humor is acceptable. While generally appropriate, avoid using "jocularly" in very formal or serious settings. Alternatives like "humorously" or "playfully" can provide similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Remember, adding wit needs a little effort so it is better to choose the words wisely. Overall, "jocularly" offers a means to inject levity into writing when used judiciously.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

humorously

Focuses more on the amusing aspect and less on the playful intent.

lightheartedly

Emphasizes the lack of seriousness or concern.

playfully

Highlights the game-like or sportive quality of the action.

wittily

Suggests cleverness and intelligence in the humor.

jokingly

Directly implies that the action is done as a joke.

facetiously

Indicates a potentially inappropriate or sarcastic humor.

teasingly

Involves playful mockery or gentle provocation.

comically

Refers to something that is funny due to its absurdity.

in a humorous manner

A more descriptive way of expressing the same idea, useful when a more formal tone is needed.

with a playful tone

Highlights the intent and style of the communication.

FAQs

How can I use "jocularly" in a sentence?

You can use "jocularly" to describe the manner in which someone says or does something in a humorous or playful way. For example, "He "jocularly" suggested we all wear funny hats."

What are some alternatives to "jocularly"?

Alternatives include "humorously", "lightheartedly", and "playfully", each carrying slightly different nuances of humor and intent.

Is it appropriate to use "jocularly" in formal writing?

While "jocularly" is a valid word, it might be better suited for less formal contexts. In formal writing, consider whether a more neutral term like "humorously" would be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "jocularly" and "sarcastically"?

"Jocularly" implies a lighthearted or playful manner, while "sarcastically" involves using irony or mockery to convey contempt or disapproval. The intent behind the words differs significantly.