joking - Master This Word
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joking Word Meanings
- a humorous story or remark
- something said or done to provoke laughter
- to make fun of someone or something
joking Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
joking Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dʒəʊk/
US
/doʊk/
joking Word Etymology
From Latin 'joca' (joke) → Old French 'joc' → English. Imagine a court jester, wearing bright clothes and making people laugh by juggling and telling funny tales.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean toward the crowd, adjust my posture, and grip a tiny story I’ve kept quiet. I set up the setup, then push the pause, letting the tension hang in the air for a beat. My eyes flick, the corners of my mouth move, and I feel a spark of control as I change the pace to land the punchline. When the laugh pops, I keep my smile light and ride the moment into the next thing I say.
Real Context
Joke is a short humorous remark, story, or action intended to amuse others. It can be a light quip, a playful comment, or a funny situation created to provoke laughter. As a noun, it names the content that makes people laugh; as a verb, to joke means to say or do something in a playful, not serious, way, or to tease in a good-natured manner. The word derives from Latin joca, passed through Old French joc, and eventually into English, with the image of a court jester entertaining a crowd. Learners should note common phrases like tell a joke, joke about/with someone, and expressions such as practical joke and bad joke.
Usage Reminders
- Use tell a joke for that classic format
- Joke about/with someone can be light teasing or satire
- Practical joke is a staged trick that intends to surprise
- Be careful not to joke about sensitive topics
- Joke and humor depend on audience and context
- Keep the tone friendly, not mean
Common Misconceptions
- Joke equals a funny story only; jokes can also be a quick remark or a prank
- To joke with someone always means insulting them
- Make a joke of someone always criticizes the person
- A joke must have a clear punchline
- Jokes are the same as laughter in every culture
Thinking Differences
Joke in English covers both content and act; think of tell a joke as a request to share funny content and joke about/with someone as playful teasing. Learners often conflate jokes with pranks or misplace the target of humor; keep humor situational and audience aware.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations (tell a joke, joke about someone, practical joke)
- Practice timing and tone to match the joke
- Audiences differ; tailor humor to the group
- Avoid jokes about protected groups or sensitive topics
- Use short, clear setup lines for quick laughs
- Record yourself and seek feedback from friends
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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