recurring joke

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "recurring joke" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a joke that is repeated multiple times in a particular context, such as in a show or among friends. For example, "The recurring joke about the cat always stealing the spotlight made everyone laugh." Alternative expressions include "running gag" and "repeated joke."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

His consumption habits are a recurring joke.

The New Yorker

The recurring joke of the skit played on Trump's odd pronunciation of "China," which resists transcription.

The New Yorker

The location of the longest-running sitcom in the US has been a recurring joke on the show.

Independent

It's becoming a good recurring joke — but it kills any hope for drama in the debate that follows.

The New Yorker

A recurring joke about a Welsh porn actress depends wholly on the (negligible) comic clout of the word "cock".

The Guardian

The recurring joke during Ken Dodd's marathon act is that he tends to go on a bit.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Mr. Yankovic's recurring jokes are the polka and food.

The New York Times - Arts

The show evolved in the manner of a sprawling social novel of the nineteenth century, constantly sprouting new plotlines, developing recurring jokes, images, and characters.

The New Yorker

He asks Don, "You some kind of astronaut?" Identity isn't just a theme of "Mad Men," it's one of the series's recurring jokes.

The New York Times - Arts

With its daydream sequences, slapstick humor and recurring jokes, the show has always required something of a learning curve from its viewers.

The New York Times - Arts

Of course, one theatergoer's high-minded drama is another's slapstick reference, so keep in mind that we're talking about a show with recurring jokes about sex with old ladies.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "recurring joke", ensure the context clearly establishes that the joke is intentionally repeated for comedic effect.

Common error

Avoid labeling coincidental similarities as a "recurring joke". A true recurring joke is intentionally repeated and recognized as such by the audience.

Linguistic Context

"Recurring joke" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object. It identifies a specific type of joke that appears multiple times within a particular context. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in describing comedic elements in TV shows, movies, and social interactions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

14%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "recurring joke" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase that describes a joke repeated multiple times in a narrative or social context. As shown by Ludwig, it frequently appears in News & Media and Wiki sources. While maintaining a neutral register, the phrase effectively communicates the presence of intentional comedic repetition, contributing to character development or plot progression. Alternatives like "running gag" and "repeated joke" offer subtle variations in emphasis, and it's important to ensure intentional repetition when labeling something a "recurring joke". Ludwig AI confirms the validity and usability of this phrase in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

running gag

Emphasizes the humorous and continuous nature of the repeated element.

repeated joke

Highlights the act of repeating the joke, focusing on the reiteration.

ongoing jest

Similar to 'running gag', it indicates a joke that continues over time.

regularly featured joke

Highlights the scheduled aspect of the joke rather than its impact.

established humorous routine

Indicates the joke is not only repeated, but also recognized and expected.

persistent comedic bit

Highlights the planned and structured nature of the comedic repetition.

consistent humorous element

Broader term, not necessarily a joke, but a consistently humorous aspect.

habitual funny line

Emphasizes how the joke has become a custom.

long-standing joke

Suggests the joke has been around for a long time, emphasizing its endurance.

customary jest

Similar to 'habitual funny line', but focuses on the joke being a tradition.

FAQs

How can I use "recurring joke" in a sentence?

You can use "recurring joke" to describe a joke that appears multiple times within a narrative or conversation. For example, "The character's clumsiness became a "recurring joke" throughout the series".

What's another way to say "recurring joke"?

Alternatives include "running gag", "repeated joke", or "ongoing jest", each emphasizing different aspects of the repetition.

Is it correct to use "recurring joke" in formal writing?

Yes, "recurring joke" is acceptable in formal writing, especially when analyzing media or cultural phenomena. However, consider the tone and audience; a more formal alternative like "persistent comedic bit" may be suitable in certain contexts.

What distinguishes a "recurring joke" from a one-time joke?

A "recurring joke" is intentionally repeated multiple times, creating a pattern or expectation. A one-time joke is a standalone instance of humor that is not revisited.