It’s Not For Everyone

Why makes this Joke funny?

What is tact? Tact is for people who aren`t witty enough to be sarcastic.

The humor in this joke, “What is tact? Tact is for people who aren`t witty enough to be sarcastic,” lies in its playful subversion of expectations and its use of irony.

• Subversion of Expectations: The joke begins as if it is going to offer a straightforward definition of tact, which is generally understood as the ability to handle delicate situations with sensitivity and skill. However, it quickly subverts this expectation by offering an unexpected and somewhat cheeky alternative definition.
• Irony: The joke is ironic because tact and sarcasm are often seen as opposites. Tact involves being diplomatic and avoiding offending people, while sarcasm can be quite blunt and sometimes offensive. The joke humorously suggests that sarcasm is a higher form of wit that only those who are not tactful enough can achieve.
• Play on Words: It plays with the idea of what is socially accepted as `intelligent` or `clever` behavior. By flipping the conventional wisdom that values tact, the joke playfully challenges societal norms about communication and intelligence.
• Relatability and Surprise: Many people can relate to the experience of using sarcasm or witnessing it in conversations. The surprise element of equating tact with a lack of wit can also be amusing, especially to those who appreciate sarcasm.

Overall, the humor comes from a clever twist on common perceptions of tact and sarcasm, appealing especially to those who enjoy wordplay and a bit of societal commentary.