How to Make People Laugh (26 Tips + Comedians Insights)

Laughter is a universal language that connects people from all walks of life—be it a party or a casual hangout. Mastering the art of humor is indeed a handy skill; it can defuse tension, foster connections, and lighten any environment.

But let’s face it, making people laugh isn’t always easy. It takes a bit of practice, some confidence, and a willingness to put yourself out there. That’s where I come in.

In this article, I’ll reveal effective, easy-to-apply humor techniques, backed by insights from comedians who’ve turned laughter into an art form.

Ready to unlock the secrets to making people laugh? Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Get Your Timing Right

When it comes to making people laugh, timing really is everything. You might have the funniest joke in the world, but if you drop it at the wrong moment, it’ll flop. I mean, picture yourself throwing out a punchline when everyone is deep in a serious discussion—it won’t just miss the mark; it might even seem inappropriate.

Start by feeling the room’s mood and pick the perfect pause in the conversation to interject your jest.

What this looks like:

Wait for a natural lull in the conversation before delivering your joke.
Keep your punchlines quick and snappy, especially in a fast-moving discussion.

Add Unexpected Twists

Everyone loves a good surprise, and that’s exactly what unexpected twists deliver in humor. I think what works here is taking a story or a joke in a predictable direction and then suddenly flipping it on its head.

Let’s say you start telling your friends about a time you were baking a cake. You were following the recipe to the letter, everything was going smoothly, and then—just when everyone expects you’ll say something went wrong with the cake—you reveal that you accidentally locked yourself out of the house while the cake was still in the oven.

It’s this kind of twist that taps into the joy of the absurd, making the mundane funny.

The key to mastering this twist is not just the element of surprise but the relatability of the setup. You need to draw on common experiences or emotions as the backdrop. That way, when you snatch your audience away from the expected ending, the effect is that much more delightful.

Share Funny Personal Stories

My personal favorite way to make people laugh is by sharing funny personal stories. People love to laugh at real human experiences. When you share a personal story that’s both authentic and amusing, you gift your audience a little slice of life they can connect with.

Maybe you once wore two different shoes to work or accidentally texted your boss with a goofy emoji intended for a friend—these are the sorts of stories that get people chuckling. They are laughing with you, not at you, because we’ve all been there in one way or another. And that shared connection? That’s humor gold.

Quick tips:

Keep your anecdotes short and sweet—I mean, no one needs the hour-by-hour breakdown!
Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself; showing you can handle a joke makes the story even funnier.

"Like when you're at a party and someone says hi and you start telling them the story about how you had a little too much champagne at a wedding once and asked the groom if he even wanted to get married and he was like, 'Not really,' but then you realize the person you're telling the story to is 'that' bride, and you're at 'that' wedding, and now it's weird."

— Katina Corrao | Comedian

Point Out Silly Things Around You

You don’t need a stage to be a comedian; the world around us is full of funny things waiting to be noticed. Keep an eye out for the quirks in your daily environment—the odd way your neighbor talks to their plants or the way the local supermarket arranges fruits in what looks like a fruit fashion show.

Mention these observations in a light-hearted manner when chatting with friends or colleagues, and it will often lead to a shared laugh. Highlighting these everyday comedies can create an instant connection because it’s humor that everyone can see and understand.

Keep in mind: Your comment should be lighthearted and not at the expense of others. Always keep it kind!

Make Funny Faces

A well-timed funny face can work wonders. It’s a universal kind of humor that doesn’t even need words! When someone tells a story, or something happens, and you react with an exaggerated surprised look or a mock-horrified expression, it can be hilarious.

Be cautious, though; this works best with people you know well and in situations that are not serious. It’s a simple but powerful tool in your comedy arsenal that, when used sparingly, can be a source of endless amusement.

"Making a funny face or grimace, over-arching my brows, sporting a mischievous grin, or hammy shoulder-shrugging have always worked well too. Answering a tricky question by suddenly doing an impression of someone famous is also a good route to a guffaw."

— Pamela Rand | Comedienne, Adventures in Feeling Young | Actress

Use Body Gestures for Laughs

Never underestimate the power of body language in humor. Sometimes, what you don’t say is just as funny as what you do. If you’re in the middle of a story, acting out a small part can get a bigger laugh than the words themselves.

Maybe you’re talking about running to catch the bus—actually showing your running in place can add an extra layer of humor. Your arms flailing, legs pumping comically in the air—it’s the kind of funny that doesn’t even need translation.

Just remember, matching your energy to the situation is key—too much can be overwhelming, and too little might be unnoticed.

Embrace Physical Comedy (Slapstick)

Slapstick is all about exaggerated physical movement, and it’s a form of humor that has made people laugh for ages. It’s the kind of comedy where someone might trip over a banana peel or bump into a lamp-post—classic!

It’s funny because it’s unexpected and it’s something we can all relate to on a clumsy day. If you’re naturally expressive and you’re in a setting where it’s okay to be a little over-the-top, go ahead and gently incorporate some physical humor.

A mock stumble or a pretend battle with an uncooperative umbrella can bring on belly laughs.

Make Jokes that Fit the Situation

Let’s think about humor like clothes for a moment. You wouldn’t wear a swimsuit to a business meeting or a suit to the beach, right? The same goes for jokes—they’ve got to match the setting.

When you’re in the break room and the coffee machine goes on the fritz, you might say, “Ah, it’s on a coffee break too!” It’s a simple line, but it works because it’s right for the moment. Keep your ears open to what’s happening around you.

Whether it’s commenting on the speed of the office elevator or the mysterious way pens seem to disappear, the right quip related to the here and now can be a hit. It’s all about making the comedy feel just as natural as the situation you’re in.

Play with Words and Puns

Wordplay is a fantastic way to sprinkle humor into your chats with minimal effort. Puns are fun because they take familiar words and give them a new, silly meaning. They’re like little riddles that make you smile once you “get” them.

For instance, if you’re at a seafood restaurant, you might say, “This place is great; you’ve got to shell out some compliments to the chef!” It’s light, it’s playful, and it gets people to groan and laugh all at once. Remember, the sillier the pun, the better—it’s about having fun with language.

More examples:

In a coffee shop, you could say, “This bean the best part of my day!”
Discussing a tedious book, “I’m glad there’s no ‘fine print,’ as everything about it was difficult enough!”

Talk About Trendy Topics

Staying up-to-date with the latest trends isn’t just great for conversations, it’s also a rich mine for humor. Bring up the newest meme that everyone is talking about or reference the popular TV show that’s caught everyone’s attention. It’s all about finding the funny in what’s already on people’s minds.

And because these topics are so widespread, your jokes land on common ground—everyone gets them, and it’s easy to join in the laughter. Just be sure to keep it light and fun; laughter is about sharing a good time.

Learn from Funny Shows and Comedians

One of the best ways to become funnier is to see how the pros do it. Watch your favorite funny shows or stand-up comedians. Notice how they build up a joke and deliver the punchline.

What’s great is that you’re not just having a good laugh but also getting an education in humor. You can pick up on certain styles that resonate with you—be it dry humor, witty remarks, or playful sarcasm.

Then, weave what you’ve learned into your own interactions. Keep it natural, though; it’s not about copying someone else’s jokes, but rather about developing your own funny style.

Make Funny Comparisons

Making humorous comparisons is an extremely effective way to get laughs. This involves finding relatable likenesses or outrageous differences between two subjects. This method is great because it can be spontaneously inserted into almost any conversation.

I think you’ll find that drawing a funny parallel between, say, your gym routine and a sloth’s day can make for a delightful observational joke.

Practical examples:

Compare your Monday motivation levels to a deflated balloon.
Jokingly liken your multitasking day to a one-man band clumsily managing various instruments.

Be Yourself and Show Your Funny Side

You know what’s really cool? Being yourself. But really, that’s where your best humor is hiding. Each of us has our own unique funny bone that just needs a little tickling to get going.

So, instead of trying to copy someone else’s jokes or style, let your own personality shine. If you think something is funny, chances are someone else will too. It might be the way you tell a story with a little exaggeration or how you can find the fun in a mess-up at work without being too hard on yourself.

When you’re real, people notice, and they love it – honestly, they do!

"More than telling a joke, however, my favorite way to get people to laugh is to poke fun at yourself, or the things in your life. For example, I am almost totally bald, so I tell people I'm a 'former' expert on how to cure baldness."

— Allen Klein | World’s only Jollytologist® | Speaker | TED Presenter | Author, The Healing Power of Humor

Talk About Things Everyone Knows

Alright, so imagine you are chatting with folks from anywhere and everywhere. What do you talk about? Things everyone gets, that’s what. The weather – because whether it’s way too hot or you’re freezing your socks off, everyone has something to say about it.

Or how about those everyday ‘oops’ moments? Like when you wave back at someone who wasn’t waving at you. Oops! Stick to these universal truths and bare facts of daily life, because when you do, everyone can jump in and laugh along. It shows we’re all in this together, and we all have those face-palm moments.

Joke Around Gently with Friends

Now, this is important. When you’re teasing and joking with your buddies, it’s like tossing a ball around – you’ve got to make sure it’s light enough for them to catch it without getting hurt.

A gentle jab about how your friend is always ‘fashionably late’ can crack up the whole gang, provided it’s said with affection and a big grin. It’s all about keeping things friendly and light. No heavy stuff, no sharp edges.

Just the good, playful banter that tightens bonds and makes for the best ‘remember when’ stories for years to come.

Try Different Ways to Be Funny

Remember, what tickles one person might not even get a smirk from another. And that’s okay. The trick is to mix it up a bit. Sometimes a pun is just what you need; other times, a funny story does the trick.

Ever tried a silly accent when telling a joke? You might just surprise yourself and get everyone around you cracking up. It’s like trying on different hats – some might not fit, but you’ll find the one that looks great on you.

And once in a while, be bold and throw in a prop for a laugh, like putting on those giant sunglasses during a sunny picnic. Change it up and see what works!

Keep Up with Jokes in Conversations

Ever been in that spot where the talk is bouncing back and forth like a ping-pong match, and jokes are flying everywhere? Jump in! If someone tosses a funny line, bounce it back with your own.

There’s no need to top it; just keep the fun going. It’s like a game of catch with laughter. It doesn’t have to be fancy or super clever – even a simple “I know, right?” or playfully pretending to misunderstand for a laugh can keep the good times rolling. The aim is to not let that ball drop; keep the chuckles coming.

Laugh at Your Own Mistakes

Let’s be real: we all mess up from time to time. Tripped over your own feet? Accidentally wore your shirt inside out? Tell the world before anyone else does. It shows you can take a joke, and there’s a good chance others will find it funny too.

After all, everyone loves someone who doesn’t take themselves too seriously. It’s like when you slip on the dance floor – do you get up and slink away? Nope! You turn it into a new dance move. That’s the spirit! Sometimes the biggest laughs come from just being human.

Turn Frustrations into Humorous Acts

Turning your day-to-day frustrations into humor can be a therapeutic and entertaining way to handle stress. Think about those little annoyances—like your headphones getting tangled, or accidentally sending an unfinished email.

Instead of letting these things get to you, flip them into a funny story. It’s relatable because everyone’s been there, and presenting it in a humorous light can turn a groan into a giggle.

Practical example:

Next time your GPS leads you astray, narrate the ordeal like it was an epic adventure quest. This slight twist can transform a frustrating experience into a laughable journey.

Find Humor in Everyday Situations

There’s something inherently funny about the mundane—like why one sock always goes missing, or how autocorrect thinks you’re talking about ducks all the time. These are things everyone experiences, so when you point them out in a light and funny way, you can easily get a giggle or two.

It’s about observing those little universal moments and shining a humorous light on them. So, the next time you’re stuck in line or cleaning up yet another spill, look for the humor in it. Chances are, when you share it, others will relate and laugh along with you.

"Finding situational humor in everyday life is what really tugs at people's laughter strings. This is because it is something that they can relate to. Take the example of the sitcom 'Seinfeld.' We guffawed at Jerry, Kramer, Elaine and George's quirks because we identify with them within ourselves."

— Geetha Subir Krishnan | Blogger, Tickle Me Comedy Club

Emphasize the ‘Rule of Three’

The ‘Rule of Three’ is a classic writing principle; it suggests that a trio of events or characters is more satisfying and effective in getting a message across. This can also be applied to humor. When you’re crafting a joke, set up a pattern with the first two elements, then surprise your audience with the third.

For example, if you’re talking about your lack of cooking skills, you might say, “I tried to make pasta, ended up burning the sauce, and somehow set off the fire alarm—dinner is served!” By building up a rhythm and then breaking it, you create a natural punchline that’s likely to earn a hearty laugh.

Example in action:

“I’ve got three hobbies: reading, hiking, and, of course, trying to take a nap while my kids scream in the background.”

Use Parody and Satire

Parody and satire can be clever tools to make people laugh because they play off something everyone already knows but in a twisted, exaggerated way. These forms of comedy take a book, movie, song, or current event and mimic it in a funny, exaggerated manner.

If everyone is talking about a hit song, you might make up your own silly version about something mundane like doing laundry or cooking dinner. The humor comes from the unexpected contrast and the familiarity of the original. Just be sure your parodies are in good spirits and not mean or hurtful.

Work on Your Soft Skills

Soft skills like tone, body language, and facial expressions are crucial when delivering a joke or a funny anecdote. They can significantly amplify the humor or, if mismatched, can cause a joke to land flat.

Pay attention to how your voice complements your words and ensure your gestures match the tone of your joke. Smiling, maintaining a lively facial expression, and using animated gestures can make a huge difference in how your humor is perceived.

Practical tips:

Practice telling a joke in front of a mirror and watch how your body naturally wants to act. Enhance these movements to improve delivery.
Altering your vocal tone to fit the joke, like using a dramatic whisper or an over-the-top announcer voice, can add an extra layer of comedy.

"Timing, tone, body language, and expression are crucial. Ever notice the late-night comedy shows? You find your favorite comedians building up suspense and when the audience is at the edge of their seats they deliver the punch line which is the opposite answer of what the audience may be expecting."

— Geetha Subir Krishnan | Blogger, Tickle Me Comedy Club

Stay Light-Hearted: Don’t Take Life Too Seriously

Sometimes, the best way to find a laugh is just to loosen up a bit. Life isn’t perfect, and it’s okay to be playful about the ups and downs. Show that you can laugh at the quirks in your own life, and you give everyone else permission to do the same.

It isn’t about ignoring life’s challenges, but instead finding a way to smile in spite of them. When you’re seen smiling and making the best of things, that positivity will rub off on others. This approachability and willingness to laugh are contagious and can turn a regular day into a memorable, joyful one.

Practise Regularly

The secret sauce to making people laugh isn’t so secret after all—it’s practice. Just like learning to play the guitar or mastering a new language, getting good at comedy takes time and effort.

Try out your jokes and funny stories on friends, family, or even your pet! Each time you do, you’ll learn a bit more about what works and what doesn’t. Maybe a joke you thought was a hit didn’t get the laugh you expected, or a simple comment made everyone burst out laughing.

Keep at it, and you’ll start to see patterns in what makes your audience smile. Remember, every master of comedy started somewhere, and practice was a key part of their journey.

Adjust Your Energy to Fit the Room

Matching your energy to that of the room is crucial in comedy. If the overall mood is high and energetic, your humor can be more boisterous or slapstick. Conversely, in a more subdued setting, a dry wit or subtle pun might be more appropriate. Being sensitive to the atmosphere will not only make your humor more effective but also makes you more relatable and engaging as a conversationalist.

What this looks like:

In a lively party setting, you might go for bigger gestures and louder, more animated jokes.
During a quiet dinner gathering, subtle humor and soft sarcasm might be the perfect touch.

More Insights From the Experts

“Self-effacing humor helps you laugh at yourself before anyone else can. It can also make you seem more human, and therefore more likable. For example, in his 1980 bit for the presidency, Ronald Reagan’s advanced age seem to be a deterrent. Reagan’s self-effacing humor helped him overcome this. He told reporters, ‘One should not worry about chronological age compared to the ability to perform the task… Ever since Thomas Jefferson told me that I stopped worrying about my age.'”

— Allen Klein | World’s only Jollytologist® | Speaker | TED Presenter | Author, The Healing Power of Humor

“Everyone in an audience, even if they arrived together, has a different point of view on religion and politics, so it’s important to avoid those topics. I find the most consistent way to make an audience laugh is to find something humorous in the most mundane, everyday aspects of life.”

— Derek Blackmon | Professional Touring Comedian

“Mimic people. Example: When your boyfriend decides to go watch football instead of walking the promenade holding hands, imitate him making the poor decision. You can do this alone or with others. Imagining the decision-making process behind it will result in pure clean fun.”

— Kendra Cunningham | Comedian | Performer | Visual Artist

“Start with either a believable premise or something totally absurd. Not something in between. You can start a joke with ‘I was shopping for underwear at Target’ or ‘I was shopping for underwear at McDonald’s,’ but if you’re middle-class and you say, ‘I was shopping for underwear at Saks Fifth Avenue,’ your friends may tune out because they’ll just think you’re lying to them.”

— Shaun Eli Breidbart | Comedian, and Executive Director of The Ivy League of Comedy

“After deep thought, I’ve compiled a list of things that have historically made everyone in the room laugh. Farting, my disturbingly specific references to the show ‘Frasier’ at any given moment, making sex noises by slapping my thighs together and moaning, screaming the song ‘Goldfinger’ in a Transatlantic accent after too many cocktails, my spot-on Detective Elliot Stabler impression, using soft cheese as a dip for a harder cheese at social gatherings, falling asleep at parties while sitting in an upright position, and finally, eating hamburgers with my hands referring to them as ‘meat cookies’.”

— Anita Flores | Comedian | Podcast Host, I’m Listening: A Frasier Fan Podcast

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I recover if a joke offends someone?

If a joke offends someone, the best approach is to apologize sincerely and without excuses. Acknowledge the other person’s feelings and learn from the experience by being more mindful of your audience in the future.

Is it alright to repeat jokes?

While fresh material is always preferred, repeating jokes can be effective if you’re interacting with a new audience or if the joke has previously received a very positive response. However, try to add variations or present it in different contexts to keep it interesting.

How do I handle cultural differences in humor when dealing with international audiences?

When interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds, it’s crucial to be mindful of cultural sensitivities. Avoid jokes that rely on stereotypes or could be misinterpreted due to cultural differences. If in doubt, opt for universal humor that transcends cultural barriers, such as situational comedy related to human nature.

Final Thoughts

As we come to the end of this article, I want to leave you with one final thought: making people laugh is not about being perfect or having the best jokes. It’s about being authentic, being present, and being willing to connect with others on a deeper level.

Humor is a tool that can help you do that, but it’s not the only tool. Keep practicing, keep learning, and keep growing. Before you know it, you’ll be making people laugh left and right.