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The expression of meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite, typically for humorous or emphatic effect. Example: A plumber's house has leaky pipes.

A phrase or figure of speech that could have two meanings or that could be understood in two different ways. Example: 'Marriage is a fine institution, but who wants to live in an institution?'

A form of humor arising from the departure of reason or logical consistency. Example: 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' by Douglas Adams.

A comic form where the speaker or writer criticizes or makes fun of themselves. Example: 'I am so bright my mother calls me son.'

The inclusion of a humorous character, scene, or witty dialogue in an otherwise serious work, often to relieve tension. Example: The character of the Fool in Shakespeare's 'King Lear'.

A device used in descriptive writing and visual arts where particular aspects of a subject are exaggerated to create a silly or comic effect. Example: Political cartoons often use caricature.

A form of intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights. Example: 'I am not young enough to know everything.' - Oscar Wilde

A figure of speech in which a writer or speaker deliberately makes a situation seem less important or serious than it is. Example: Calling a spade a 'gardening tool.'

A literary genre or mode that uses irony, wit, and sometimes sarcasm to expose humanity's vices and foibles, often in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues. Example: 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell.

A comedy genre that is based on a fixed set of characters in a consistent setting, where humor comes from the situations in which they find themselves. Example: TV sitcoms like 'Friends'.

The use of irony to mock or convey contempt. Example: 'Great job on spilling your coffee,' when someone spills their coffee.

A genre of comedy film that became popular during the Great Depression, characterized by fast-paced repartee, farcical situations, escapist themes, and lively, often eccentric characters. Example: 'Bringing Up Baby' (1938).

The mistaken use of a word in place of a similar-sounding one, often with unintentionally amusing effect. Example: 'He's the pineapple of politeness,' instead of 'pinnacle.

A comic imitation of another's style of work or genre for the purposes of criticism or humor. Example: 'Spaceballs' parodies 'Star Wars'.

A statement that represents something as better or worse than it really is. Example: 'It was so cold, I saw polar bears wearing jackets.'

A play on words that have similar sounds but different meanings, often used for comedic effect. Example: 'I used to be a baker, but I couldn't make enough dough.'

An extreme exaggeration used to make a point or for comedic effect. Example: 'I'm so hungry I could eat a horse.'

The fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect. Example: A modern smartphone in a historical Victorian setting can create a comedic effect.

A form of physical comedy characterized by exaggerated, sometimes violent action. Example: The pie-in-the-face gag is a classic slapstick moment.

Humor that arises from visual cues such as physical comedy, sight gags, or absurd imagery, often without the need for dialogue. Example: Mr. Bean's exaggerated facial expressions.

A comedy that aims at entertaining the audience through situations that are highly exaggerated, extravagant, and thus improbable. Example: 'The Importance of Being Earnest' by Oscar Wilde.

A sub-genre of humor that makes light of subject matter that is generally considered taboo, particularly subjects that are normally considered serious or painful to discuss. Example: 'Dr. Strangelove' is a film that uses black comedy.

When the audience is aware of something that the characters in the story are not aware of. Example: In 'Romeo and Juliet', the audience knows Juliet is alive, but Romeo does not.

An indirect or subtle, usually derogatory implication in expression; an insinuation. Example: 'Is that a gun in your pocket or are you just happy to see me?'