What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
joke
Example
The comedian told a hilarious joke that had the audience laughing out loud. [joke: noun]
Example
He likes to joke around with his friends and make them laugh. [joke: verb]
prank
Example
The students played a prank on their teacher by switching all the desks around. [prank: noun]
Example
She likes to prank her friends by hiding their belongings and watching them search for them. [prank: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Joke is more commonly used than prank in everyday language. Joke is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while prank is less common and often associated with playful or mischievous behavior among friends.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between joke and prank?
While joke can be used in both formal and informal contexts, prank is typically associated with a casual and informal tone and is not appropriate for formal situations.