Wit: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe someone's ability to make quick and clever remarks or jokes. It usually implies a sense of humor and quick thinking.

• Her wit during the debate kept everyone entertained.
• He responded with wit, turning the awkward situation into a laughing matter.

Used to describe the overall mental ability to learn, understand, and make judgements. It is a neutral term and can apply to academic, social, or emotional contexts.

• Her intelligence was evident from the way she handled complex issues at work.
• The student's high intelligence was recognized by all his teachers.

Refers to someone's ability to solve problems with creativity and intelligence. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on whether the cleverness is seen as cunning.

• Her cleverness helped her solve the puzzle in minutes.
• His cleverness in avoiding taxes always got him into trouble.

Describes someone's quickness in thought or perception. It can also imply a level of acuteness in criticism or observation.

• His sharpness in negotiations earned him great deals.
• The sharpness of her critique was not well-received.

Used to describe a sharp and astute sense of humor often combined with intelligence.

• Her wit was evident in her clever responses during the debate.
• Mark Twain is known for his wit in his writing.

A broad term for anything that people find funny, ranging from stories and jokes to situational comedy. It's not always about intelligence or sharpness.

• His sense of humor made him very popular at parties.
• The movie was full of humor and laughter.

Friendly and playful exchange of teasing remarks. Usually light-hearted and informal.

• The friends enjoyed some light banter over dinner.
• There was a lot of banter during the family gathering.

Short, witty remarks that are often sharp or sarcastic. Usually used in conversations for a quick, clever response.

• Sarah is known for her quick quips that can lighten the mood.
• He had a quip ready for every situation.

Use 'wit' when referring to the ability to make clever and funny remarks. It's often appreciated in social settings and intellectual conversations.

• Her wit made her the life of the party.
• He impressed everyone with his sharp wit.

Use 'tease' when gently making fun of someone in a playful or endearing way. It can be positive if done amicably, but may turn negative if it crosses a line.

• "He likes to tease his sister about her cooking skills, but it's all in good fun."
• "She was just teasing him; she didn't mean any harm."

Use 'mock' when imitating someone in a way that might be mean or to make fun of them. It often has a negative connotation and can be hurtful.

• "The kids started to mock him because of his accent."
• "She felt bad after realizing her friend got upset when she mocked his dance moves."

Use 'banter' to describe light, playful, and friendly conversation. It's usually a two-way exchange of teasing remarks without intention to insult.

• "I love the banter between them; it makes for great entertainment."
• "After dinner, the team stayed for a while, enjoying some friendly banter."