Recently, a phenomenon of banter has become a popular manifestation of communication on the Internet (and even beyond). Nevertheless, not everyone understands what is hidden behind this concept, and how to distinguish it from similar at first glance phenomena - humor, irony, and even name-calling. The article will discuss what actually constitutes a banter, what it is divided into and what rules it obeys.
Where did it come from
Linguists involved in the study of slang, defined this word as having come from the verb "quit", with its now obsolete meaning - quilting, whipping, whipping or twig. However, an indirect meaning has been preserved, since banter is precisely the whip and unexpectedness of verbal attacks.
This slang word entered the Russian language in the 70s of the last century, being inextricably linked with the then existing political system, ideology, censorship and the desire of the state to impose template thinking on people. As a counter to this, ways to ridicule the existing reality have developed.
What does it look like
This kind of joke is characterized by the creation of an exaggerated, theatrical effect. Another important element is surprise and novelty.
If you try, you can find words that are similar in meaning, because the Russian language is rich in synonyms. The banter is quite comparable with the following concepts:
- sarcasm;
- black humor;
- mockery;
- parody;
- exaggeration;
- jerking (jerking);
- mockery
- joke;
- irony.
In all these manifestations, one can single out something in common, which together constitutes a banter. The meaning of the word is easiest to understand when it is embodied in reality.
Where does it meet
Mocking works of art of various genres, including films, songs and a variety of literature, Internet themes, individual examples of advertising, some types of jokes and even certain journalistic articles are all examples of banter. To its separate manifestation can be attributed video and photos. The banter in this case appears in visual form. For example, a series of parodies of the popular follow me trend.
There is also a visual-graphic embodiment when a picture or photograph combines with text, creating a mocking or parody effect.
The banter exists both in popular culture and in the elite. In the first case, the mockery is straightforward and even sometimes primitive. In the second case, there is a more subtle, intellectual irony, to understand which it is necessary to have a certain cultural baggage and perceive the nuances of meaning.
What is it needed for
Banter is not just making fun of the process itself. Of course, the hesitating person receives considerable pleasure from his actions, however, they are not performed at all aimlessly. What is banter usually used for?
Communication. The method, of course, is peculiar, but, nevertheless, very common in some friendly companies, mainly in the youth environment. Constant banter, ridicule and parody of each other become a way of life.
Flirt. In elementary school, boys pull girls for pigtails, and then they grow up and change tactics somewhat. But the meaning of this does not change. However, the result too.
Improving self-esteem and increasing motivation. A way for those who like to improve their mood at someone else's expense. In addition, there is no guarantee that the object of ridicule will not begin to answer the same. However, sometimes this use of banter is effective - in cases where some unpleasant phenomenon or event is exposed to poisonous irony. In addition, people with adequate self-esteem are able to jib even over themselves, thereby relieving stress.
Attracting attention and enhancing imagery. When it comes to composing vibrant texts or certain types of public speaking, banter is also a means of artistic expression. In these cases, a hidden parody, subtle mockery and exaggeration are used, thanks to which the subject of the conversation appears, as if enlarged under a magnifying glass.
Not an insult
Many mistakenly believe that banter is nothing more than an insult to a person and banal curses. But all is far from it, but much more complicated. If a person is ridiculed or mimicked, then this is not banter.
What does “personality” mean? This refers to the person as a whole, with all its advantages and disadvantages. You can joke only over certain qualities of character, actions and words, and it is strictly forbidden to humiliate and call names someone. Otherwise, this can not be called a banter. However, far from all people can correctly understand such poisonous irony and, having taken offense, begin to simply insult in response. In general, banter is something to be handled with care. It is better not to communicate in this style with unfamiliar or overly touchy people. Of course, if your goal is not the prospect of becoming an object of universal hatred.
How to get rid
Obviously, not everyone can enjoy the banter, and not in any situation. What can be done to stop making fun?
Reply the same. This method is suitable for witty and unperturbed people who are able to turn someone else's banter into an elegant verbal duel in which they either defeat the enemy with brilliance or achieve a draw and mutual pleasure.
Transfer of the gall banter into the field of harmless humor. This method reduces the passions and allows the instigator to "cool down."
Quietly ask to stop sarcastic attacks. If the other person is not stupid, he will notice that you are not in the mood for jokes and will try to show off wit another time.
Openly ask the embarrassing opponent why he is doing this. Typically, such questions discourage and reduce the desire to continue the game.
Strict requirement to terminate. It is used in cases where other methods do not work, and may be accompanied by a threat. It is important that the source of ridicule understands the seriousness of the situation.
It is important to remember that a real banter is obtained when no one feels offended. It is best to make the object of such jokes something abstract: situations, events, phenomena, and if people, then not specific personalities, but only their types.