Translation guide
The English word "jest" refers to a playful or humorous remark, often made in a lighthearted or mocking way. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; instead, different words and phrases are used depending on whether you mean a joke, a witty remark, or speaking in jest.
To refer to a funny story, one-liner, or playful comment meant to amuse.
The most common and general word for 'joke' or 'jest'. Can be used in almost any context.
That's a jest.
Please don't jest.
Loanword from English, often used for Western-style jokes or one-liners.
He's always making jests.
To indicate that something was said playfully, without serious intent.
Literally 'say as a joke'. The standard way to express that something was said in jest.
I only said it in jest.
Means 'half-jokingly' or 'partly in jest'. Used when there is some truth mixed with humor.
To say something in jest with the nuance of teasing or making fun of someone lightly.
To refer to a sharp, humorous comment that shows intelligence or quick thinking.
To jest about a person or topic, often with a teasing but not malicious tone.
English often uses 'jest' as a verb (e.g., 'I jest'), but Japanese does not have a single verb equivalent. Instead, use phrases like 冗談を言う (tell a joke) or 冗談で言う (say in jest). Using 冗談する is not natural.
冗談 is the native Japanese word and is used in all situations. ジョーク is a loanword that often implies a Western-style structured joke with a punchline. For general jesting, 冗談 is safer.
I said it half in jest, but I really think so.
I only said it in jest; don't get mad.
I'm always impressed by his jests.
彼はいつも私を揶揄う。
He always jests at my expense.