wit
/wɪt/ (bre, ipa) · [wˈɪt] /wɪt/ (ame, ipa) · [wˈɪt] /ˈwit/ (ame, mw)
wit — noun
- witsingular
- witsplural
1. The quality of being able to express ideas in a way that is both clever and amus
The quality of being able to express ideas in a way that is both clever and amusing, especially through unexpected or skilful use of language.
Diya's sharp wit kept the dinner guests laughing all evening.
possessive + adjective + wit as subject
The film was praised for the dry wit of its dialogue.
collocation: dry wit
You need a certain kind of wit to write good comedy.
A speech full of wit and charm can win over even a difficult audience.
Nkechi combined warmth and wit, so her humorous remarks never felt mean.
- humour
Broader term — humour can mean the quality of being funny in any way; wit specifically involves clever use of language.
- cleverness
Focuses on intelligence rather than humour; a clever remark may not be funny, but a witty one usually is.
- sarcasm
A specific form of wit that uses irony to criticise or mock; not all wit is sarcastic.
- dullness
Lack of liveliness or sharpness in expression.
用法筆記
Frequently modified by adjectives that describe the type of humor: 'dry wit,' 'sharp wit,' 'quick wit.' Unlike 'humour,' which can describe a situation, 'wit' nearly always describes a person's quality or the character of something they create.
常見錯誤
2. Someone naturally gifted at making clever and amusing remarks, especially in con
Someone naturally gifted at making clever and amusing remarks, especially in conversation or public speaking.
The famous writer was known as a brilliant wit in London literary circles.
countable: a [adjective] wit
Haruto, a local wit, always had a clever response ready at the village meetings.
Many past-century wits are known more for their quotes than their books.
Megan was the sharpest wit in the office and made every team meeting more interesting.
用法筆記
This sense is mainly found in formal or literary writing, or when describing historical or famous figures. In everyday speech, 'a funny person' or 'someone who is very witty' is far more common.
3. The natural ability to think clearly, react quickly, and make good decisions in
The natural ability to think clearly, react quickly, and make good decisions in a difficult or unexpected situation.
Liam had the wit to call an ambulance as soon as he saw the accident.
wit + to + infinitive: had the wit to
Saira kept her wits about her during the blackout and found candles for the children.
idiom: keep one's wits about one
A long hike in unfamiliar country demands quick wits and steady nerves.
Mert used all his wits to talk his way out of a difficult situation.
The rescue team needed every ounce of wit and courage to reach the stranded climbers.
- intelligence
Broader and more formal; intelligence includes general mental ability, whereas wit in this sense emphasises speed and practical judgment.
- resourcefulness
Focuses on finding clever solutions; close in meaning to 'wits' when used in the plural.
- shrewdness
Emphasises practical, often self-interested judgment; wit here is broader and less calculating.
- stupidity
Lack of intelligence or good sense.
文法句型
wit + to + infinitive
用法筆記
The singular form ('had the wit to…') focuses on a single act of intelligent judgement. The plural 'wits' ('keep your wits about you') suggests an ongoing state of alertness. Many common idioms use the plural form (see idioms below).
常見錯誤
4. A short, clever, and amusing comment made during a conversation — a witty line o
A short, clever, and amusing comment made during a conversation — a witty line or quip.
Élise ended the debate with a perfectly timed wit that drew applause from the audience.
countable: a [adverb] wit
The play is full of sharp wits exchanged between the two main characters.
plural: wits = witty remarks
Tamás collected the best wits from dinner parties in a small leather notebook.
Her response was a gentle wit — funny enough to break the tension without offending anyone.