Teasing: meaning, definitions and examples

Teasing is used when you are playfully making fun of someone in a light-hearted way. It involves gentle humor and is not meant to hurt the other person's feelings.

• She was teasing her brother about his new haircut, but he knew she wasn't serious

Banter is light, playful, and friendly exchange of teasing remarks. It's often mutual and keeps the conversation lively without any real intention of offending.

• The banter between the friends at the dinner table made everyone laugh throughout the meal

Joking can be used in any situation where something funny or amusing is said. It is broad and can include anything from puns to sarcasm, as long as the intention is to entertain or amuse.

• He was joking when he said he saw a UFO last night; everyone knew he was just trying to make them laugh

Mocking has a more negative tone and is used when someone is making fun of someone else in a scornful or derisive manner. It is meant to belittle or scorn someone.

• She felt hurt when her classmates started mocking her for her accent

Used when someone playfully makes fun of another person in a light-hearted manner. It's not meant to harm but to share a joke.

• She was teasing her friend about his new haircut.
• They spent the evening teasing each other about their favorite sports teams.

Used when someone intentionally tries to elicit a strong reaction, often negative, from another person. It implies a deliberate act to incite anger or discomfort.

• He tried to provoke her by mocking her ideas.
• The rude comments were meant to provoke a reaction from the crowd.

Used when someone is doing something that causes irritation or frustration to another person. It has a slightly negative connotation.

• The constant noise from the construction site really annoyed the neighbors.
• His habit of interrupting people during meetings annoyed everyone.

Used when there is a friendly, witty exchange of remarks, usually between friends or close acquaintances. It's often humorous and light-hearted.

• Their banter made the long car ride much more enjoyable.
• The two colleagues engaged in banter every morning over coffee.