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.
I only said it in jest; don't get mad.
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'm always impressed by his jests.
彼はいつも私を揶揄う。
He always jests at my expense.