What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
punning
Example
The comedian's punning had the audience laughing throughout the show. [punning: noun]
Example
She couldn't resist punning on the word 'bass' when talking about her fishing trip. [punning: gerund or present participle]
wordplay
Example
The writer's use of wordplay added a playful tone to the story. [wordplay: noun]
Example
He enjoys engaging in wordplay with his friends, often coming up with clever puns and jokes. [wordplay: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wordplay is a more commonly used term than punning in everyday language. Wordplay is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while punning is more specific and may be less familiar to some people.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between punning and wordplay?
Both punning and wordplay can be used in informal or casual contexts, but wordplay may be more commonly used in formal or literary settings due to its broader scope and potential for more complex language use.
