joke

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "joke" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to refer to something humorous. For example: "Everyone laughed when the comedian told a joke about a talking dog."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Arts

TV & Radio

Lifestyle

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You are a pathetic loser and a joke.

The Guardian

But, as a private company – just like a comedian mulling over a rape joke, or a troll looking for a target for his anger – it could choose not to.

The Guardian

Given the diversity around your average dinner table, it would be extraordinarily difficult to come up with a joke that everyone found funny.

The Guardian

I hope it has not caused offence, because it was a joke".

The Guardian

The following day he totally blew a gasket, saying that Ed Balls' description of Liam Byrne's "there's no money left" note as a joke was "frankly the most appalling thing I have heard in this election campaign so far".

The Guardian

Back then, women's "soccer" was frequently depicted as a joke – or even something slightly shameful.

The Guardian - Sport

Motion sees Carter as a comic writer who saw the life of the universe as an awful joke, "or rather, awful and a joke".

The Guardian - Books

While it can be hard to tell at times whether or not she's in on the joke, in some moments (like this birthday tribute to Madonna) she's a knowing comedic genius, and it's clear that she's trying to make herself laugh as much as anyone else.

The Guardian

There's also an Elton John joke ("He's 'popping round'? Give someone a title and they treat the place like it's a Starbucks").

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Finally remembering he was also supposed to be injecting some humour into the occasion, he made a laboured fishing joke about Salmond and Sturgeon.

The Guardian

One never sees him sharing a canape and a joke with Christopher Biggins in Hello!, or even falling out of nightclubs with Ewan McGregor.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When crafting a "joke", consider your audience and the context to ensure it is well-received and appropriate. Tailor the humor to resonate with the intended listeners.

Common error

Avoid assuming everyone will find the same things funny; cultural differences, personal experiences, and individual sensibilities can significantly impact the reception of a "joke". Be mindful of potential sensitivities to prevent offense.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "joke" is as a noun, referring to an amusing story or something done for amusement. It can also function as a verb, meaning to say or do something playfully. This is supported by Ludwig AI indicating its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Lifestyle

12%

TV & Radio

7%

Less common in

Sport

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Arts

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "joke" is a versatile term in the English language, functioning as both a noun and a verb. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, highlighting its prevalence across diverse contexts. As a noun, it signifies an amusing story or something done for amusement. As a verb, it means to say or do something playfully. Analysis of example sentences reveals its common usage in News & Media, Lifestyle, and TV & Radio. When using "joke", consider your audience and the context to ensure it resonates appropriately and avoid potential offense. Related phrases include "funny story" and "witty remark", offering alternative ways to express humor. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively incorporate "joke" into your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

funny story

Emphasizes the narrative aspect of a joke, focusing on its structure as a tale intended to amuse.

amusing anecdote

Highlights a brief, entertaining account, often based on a real incident.

witty remark

Focuses on cleverness and quick intelligence in a statement.

comedic bit

Refers to a short, humorous performance or routine.

humorous jest

A lighthearted or playful act designed to provoke laughter.

laughing matter

Indicates something not to be taken seriously, often with a humorous undertone.

practical joke

A prank or trick played on someone for amusement.

figure of fun

Someone who is ridiculed or laughed at.

object of derision

Something or someone treated with contemptuous mockery.

source of amusement

Something that provides enjoyment and laughter.

FAQs

How can I use "joke" in a sentence?

You can use "joke" as a noun, referring to something said or done to cause amusement, or as a verb, meaning to say or do something playfully. For example, "He told a funny joke" or "I was only joking".

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

A "joke" is typically a verbal or written expression intended to cause amusement, while a prank is a playful trick or mischievous act. A prank often involves action and may not always be verbal. A "practical joke" combines aspects of both.

What can I say instead of "it was just a joke" to downplay something?

You could say "I didn't mean it seriously", "I was only kidding", or "It was just a bit of "banter"" depending on the context.

When is it inappropriate to make a "joke"?

It's generally inappropriate to make a "joke" that is offensive, insensitive, or targets vulnerable individuals or groups. Consider the potential impact of your words and avoid humor that could cause harm or distress.