Humour vs Jest

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 HumourJest
MeaningThe ability to be funny or to find things funny.A joke or something said to make people laugh.
CEFR levelB2B1
Part of speechnounnoun
Usage notesUsed to describe a person's ability to make others laugh or the funny aspects of a situation. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Avoid using it in serious discussions.Used in informal contexts to indicate humor or joking. Less common in formal writing.

Frequently asked questions: Humour vs Jest

What's the difference between "Humour" and "Jest"?

"Humour" means: The ability to be funny or to find things funny. "Jest" means: A joke or something said to make people laugh.

When should I use "Humour" and "Jest"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

Are "Humour" and "Jest" the same CEFR level?

"Humour" is at B2, "Jest" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.

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