What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
jest
Example
He made a jest about the boss's new haircut. [jest: noun]
Example
She jests with her friends all the time. [jests: verb]
joke
Example
He told a joke about a chicken crossing the road. [joke: noun]
Example
She joked that she was going to quit her job and become a rock star. [joked: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Joke is more commonly used than jest in everyday language. Joke is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while jest is less common and may be seen as old-fashioned or outdated.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between jest and joke?
Joke can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while jest is typically associated with a more informal and casual tone.
