What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
humour
Example
The comedian's humour was appreciated by the audience. [humour: noun]
Example
She has a great sense of humour and always makes me laugh. [humour: noun]
Example
The show was full of witty humour that had everyone laughing. [humour: adjective]
wit
Example
He is known for his quick wit and ability to make people laugh. [wit: noun]
Example
She is a witty person who always has a clever response. [witty: adjective]
Example
The play was full of witty one-liners that had the audience in stitches. [wit: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Humour is a more commonly used term than wit in everyday language, as it is a broader term that covers a wider range of contexts. Wit is a more specific term that is often used in reference to a person's ability or a particular type of humour.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between humour and wit?
Both humour and wit can be used in various formality levels, but wit is often associated with a more formal or literary tone due to its emphasis on clever wordplay and puns.
