English (learn super fast) Flashcards
define spoonerism
words or phrases in which letters get swapped
e.g. ‘tease my ears = ease my tears’
define malapropism
use of an incorrect word in place of another
e.g. ‘I might fade into Bolivian’
what are the two aspect of a joke?
(hint: anatomy of a joke)
the setup (involving details, characters, place and situation)
the punchline
How many theories of humour are there?
3
explain the superiority theory
supposes laughter expresses superiority feelings over another person/group
what are issues with the superiority theory?
does not account for:
1. human empathy
2. humour that does not involve people
explain the relief theory
supposes that laughter is the expression and release of nervous energy that has built up in the body
what are issues with the relief theory?
it assumes that humour is dependent emotions (humour can be produced without underlying emotions)
explain the incongruity theory
supposes we observe the world in patterns/have expectations and encountering something out of place causes surprise evoking humour
what are issues with the incongruity theory?
n/a
what is an anecdote?
a short personal story or amusing event which demonstrates a point evoking humour
What are the different humorous tones?
absurd - unbelievable
blithe - cheerful
farcical - exaggerated
silly
ironic - opposite meaning
jocular - prone to joking
incredulous - disbelief
satirical - criticism
witty - smart funny
what is portmanteau?
a word bending the sounds and combining the meanings of two (e.g. brunch = breakfast + lunch)
what is satire?
the use of humour designed to criticize someone or something
what are some literary features of satire
irony
an anachronism
parody
understatement
overstatement
juxtaposition
malapropism
