Translation guide
A quick, witty remark or joke, often made in conversation. Japanese has several ways to express this, from casual retorts to clever wordplay.
A light, witty remark or banter. Often used in the phrase 軽口を叩く (to crack a joke or make a witty remark).
He always lightens the mood with a quip.
A joke or jest. While broader than 'quip', it can be used for a quick, funny remark.
That was just a quip.
A witty remark, pun, or joke. Often implies wordplay. Can be used for a clever quip.
Everyone laughed at his quip.
To make a quick, often sarcastic or cutting remark.
A short, clever remark that is memorable or serves as a retort.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches 'quip' in all contexts. Choose based on the tone: 軽口 for light wit, 皮肉 for sarcasm, 洒落 for wordplay.
彼の嫌味にはうんざりだ。
I'm tired of his snide quips.
彼の決め台詞に観客が沸いた。
The audience roared at his signature quip.