ELTIS- Understanding English Humour with British and American Jokes

1. Understanding English Humour with British and American Jokes Humour is an important tool for language learning. Any competent spoken English course will tell you that humour transcends boundaries. It is the ultimate glue that gels all humans together. Humour in its purest form leads to new friendships and acquaintances. Moreover, a good laugh between classes is a fun way to learn English. Now, here’s another interesting thing about humour. It differs from person to person. Humour also varies according to geographical boundaries. People from one corner of the world may laugh at different jokes compared to others. Therefore, it is important to understand cultural nuances when studying humour. Let’s discuss the two most common forms of humour in the English language. British Humor The Brits were hardened sailors in their heydays. Hence, they are known for their dry wit and uncompromising stance. Their jokes are often ruthless and directed at the irony of the situations. British TV shows are rife with self-deprecating jokes. They are evergreen and watchable even after being off-air. Such is the case of British humour that everyone enjoys it. As the saying goes, ‘The British may have stale food, but their jokes never are’. You can analyse British comedy sketches to learn more about the dialect. American Humor American humour is deeply rooted in exaggeration and physical comedy. Looking closely at American TV shows, you will notice that they have a healthy dose of slapstick comedy. A good example is Family Guy, which features exaggerated themes. The show also has satirical social commentary, which is another feature of American humour. They are not shy of joking about sensitive topics and can lighten the mood around any subject. You will also find that American humour uses slang and impersonations. You can study American shows to find out more about the culture. Common Ground in Humour There are many jokes in both British and American culture that transcend boundaries. Some jokes are just that universal. Both being first-world countries can relate to a similar range of topics. We must appreciate both styles because they do give us an insight into the everyday usage of the English language. You too, can incorporate humour in your English learning process to become a better speaker.

2. You can also develop a deeper understanding of the culture through an English-speaking online course. Incorporating humour into your language learning routine can make the process more enjoyable and engaging. So, don't be afraid to laugh and learn!