LEXICAL AMBIGUITY AS A SOURCE OF HUMOUR IN DAD SAYS JOKES POSTS

Abstract

This study explores the linguistic phenomenon of ambiguity, recognising its dual nature in communication. Despite its tendency to cause confusion, ambiguity serves as a source of humour in particular contexts. This study specifically examines the role of lexical ambiguity, a subtype of ambiguity, in creating humour. The data for this study were collected from posts on the 'X' account, @Dadsaysjokes, spanning from October 2023 to January 2024. The study applied a qualitative methodology and aimed to identify lexically ambiguous words in the posts and examine the humour they create, drawing on Kreidler's theory of ambiguity and Krikmann's theory of humour. The analysis revealed that 10 posts incorporated lexically ambiguous words, highlighting their prevalence in creating verbal humour. This study has contributed to the mechanisms of humour production, highlighting the interplay between lexical ambiguity, incongruity, and humorous effect. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of considering ambiguity not only as a potential obstacle to effective communication but also as a valuable source of humour production and entertainment.

Keywords: incongruity, lexical ambiguity, verbal humour