Although similar, synonyms have subtly different meanings and are used in different contexts. For example, the words calculate, cipher, cypher, figure, reckon and work out are all synonyms of each other because they have roughly the same meaning, but there are subtle differences. Test your synonym knowledge.
=a. humor
=b. irony
=c. repartee
=d. sarcasm
e. satire
=f. wit
g. funny
=1. If you're good at perceiving analogies between dissimilar things and expressing them in quick, sharp, spontaneous observations or remarks, you have ___
=2. On the other hand, ___ is the ability to perceive what is comical, ridiculous, or ludicrous in a situation or character, and to express it in a way that makes others see or feel the same thing. It suggests more sympathy, tolerance, and kindliness than #1 (she maintained a sense of ___ in the midst of trying circumstances)
=3. ___ is the implicit humor in the contradiction between what is meant and what is expressed, or in the discrepancy between appearance and reality. An example would be to shout, in the midst of a hurricane, "What a perfect day for a wedding!"
=4. Although ___ may take the form of #3, it is less subtle and is often used harshly or bitterly to wound or ridicule someone. Unlike #3, however, ___ depends on tone of voice for its effect ("a fine friend you turned out to be!" he said, with obvious ___)
5. ___ usually implies the use of #4 or #3 for the purpose of ridicule or criticism, often directed at institutions or political figures (she wrote political ___ for the comedy team)
=6. If you are good at making quick, witty replies, you will be known for your ___, which is the art of responding pointedly and skillfully with #1 or #2 in a conversational exchange (no one could compete with her #1-ty ___)
acebook
witter
