sharp sense of humour

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sharp sense of humor" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is witty or amusing, often in a clever or biting way. For example, you could say, "He always had a sharp sense of humor that made everyone laugh."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Music

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Clinton is said to have a sharp sense of humour by those who know her.

The Guardian

Mandela also had a sharp sense of humour, according to La Grange.

The Guardian

He has a sharp sense of humour, which can be very cynical and dark.

The Guardian

He was a quiet, modest and gentle person with a sharp sense of humour and an infectious smile.

The Guardian

Even friends say his often sharp sense of humour can be 'offensive' to those he doesn't like or rate.

The Guardian

His memory of Edie was of "a very strong and intelligent woman, with a sharp sense of humour.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Northern Irish people tend to have this sharp, dark sense of humour.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Give Ali a mic and he'd tear his opponent a new orifice using nothing but his sharp mind, his sense of humour and the indomitable swagger that came both from knowing his own talent, and understanding precisely where his adversary was most vulnerable to some verbal needling.

The Guardian - Music

Have personality and a sense-of-humour.

WikiHow

"No other world in video games comes close to this in size or scope, and there is sharp intelligence behind its sense of humour and gift for mayhem.

Independent

Sandilands is sharp and has a sense of humour his audience enjoys even if it's too broad for his many media critics.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sharp sense of humour" to describe individuals whose wit is intelligent, quick, and sometimes slightly biting or sarcastic. For example, describe a character as having a "sharp sense of humour" to convey their cleverness and wit.

Common error

Avoid using "sharp sense of humour" to describe someone who is simply silly or goofy. The phrase implies intelligence and a potential for sarcasm, not just lightheartedness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sharp sense of humour" functions as a descriptive attribute, typically used to characterize a person or entity. Ludwig provides examples that highlight its common usage in describing individuals with intelligent and quick wit.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Music

12%

Books

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sharp sense of humour" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone who possesses intelligent, quick-witted, and sometimes subtly sarcastic humour. According to Ludwig, its usage spans across various contexts, from news and media to literature, reflecting its versatility in characterizing individuals. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for professional and informal communication, though careful consideration should be given to the specific connotation – emphasizing intelligence and wit, rather than mere silliness. Keep in mind that the use of the phrase "sharp sense of humour" means to convey appreciation or recognition of someone's intelligence and comedic ability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

razor-sharp wit

Emphasizes the precision and effectiveness of the humor, amplifying the intensity.

keen sense of humour

Replaces "sharp" with "keen", suggesting a slightly more refined or perceptive comedic sensibility.

incisive wit

Similar to "sharp", but emphasizes the penetrating and insightful nature of the humour.

dry sense of humour

Indicates a more understated and subtle comedic style compared to "sharp".

penetrating humor

Highlights the ability of the humor to reveal deeper truths or insights.

wry sense of humour

Suggests a blend of irony and amusement, making the humour subtly mocking or cynical.

sparkling wit

Indicates lively and engaging humor, more effervescent than merely 'sharp'.

quick wit

Focuses on the speed and intelligence behind the humour, rather than its specific quality.

subtle wit

Signifies an understated humor, more sophisticated than something overtly 'sharp'.

agile mind

Highlights the mental dexterity that enables comedic insight and timing, shifting the focus from humor itself to mental ability.

FAQs

How can I use "sharp sense of humour" in a sentence?

You can say, "Despite the serious situation, she maintained a "sharp sense of humour"" or "His "sharp sense of humour" often caught people off guard".

What's a similar phrase to "sharp sense of humour"?

Alternatives include "keen sense of humour", "dry sense of humour", or "quick wit", each with slightly different connotations.

Is it appropriate to describe someone's humour as "sharp" in formal writing?

Yes, "sharp" is acceptable in formal writing, but be mindful of the context. It suggests intelligence and wit, which may not always be appropriate. Using alternatives like "incisive wit" could lend a more sophisticated tone.

What distinguishes a "sharp sense of humour" from a "good sense of humour"?

A "good sense of humour" is general and implies an ability to find things funny. A "sharp sense of humour", on the other hand, suggests intelligence, quickness, and sometimes a slightly critical or sarcastic edge. So instead of using "good sense of humour" you need to assess the context.