What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gag
Example
The comedian's gag about the talking dog had the audience in stitches. [gag: noun]
Example
She decided to play a gag on her friend by putting a fake spider in her coffee cup. [gag: noun]
Example
He always has a good gag up his sleeve to lighten the mood. [gag: noun]
joke
Example
The comedian told a hilarious joke about his family that had the audience roaring with laughter. [joke: noun]
Example
She made a funny joke about the weather to break the tension in the room. [joke: noun]
Example
He likes to joke around with his friends and make them laugh. [joke: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Joke is more commonly used than gag in everyday language. Joke is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while gag is less common and often associated with physical comedy or pranks.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gag and joke?
Both gag and joke are informal words that are used in casual conversation or entertainment settings. However, joke is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while gag is typically associated with a more informal tone and may not be appropriate in formal situations.
