Double entendre

Definition

A double entendre is a figure of speech that has two interpretations, one of which is often risqué or suggestive in nature. This clever wordplay can add depth and humor to dialogue, creating layered meanings that engage the audience. In storytelling, it allows characters to convey subtext through seemingly innocuous statements, leading to richer and more complex conversations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Double entendres are commonly used in comedies to deliver jokes that have a secondary meaning, making them entertaining for audiences of various ages.
2. In dramatic writing, double entendres can reveal hidden tensions between characters, allowing for richer interpersonal dynamics without overtly stating conflict.
3. The effectiveness of a double entendre relies heavily on context; when delivered well, it can enhance character development and plot progression.
4. Skilled writers often use double entendres to provide comic relief in tense situations, balancing humor with serious themes.
5. Cultural references and societal norms play a significant role in how double entendres are interpreted; what may be suggestive in one culture could be benign in another.

Review Questions

• How does the use of double entendre contribute to character development in a narrative?
  • Double entendre helps in character development by allowing characters to express themselves in ways that hint at their true intentions or feelings without being overt. This technique creates a sense of intrigue around characters, making them more relatable and layered. By using ambiguous language, writers can showcase the complexities of human relationships and internal conflicts, adding depth to character interactions.
• Discuss how double entendre can change the tone of a conversation within a script.
  • The tone of a conversation can shift dramatically with the inclusion of double entendres. By introducing playful or suggestive language, writers can lighten the mood even in serious discussions, creating an unexpected contrast that engages the audience. This interplay allows characters to navigate complex emotions while maintaining an element of humor or irony, leading to a more dynamic storytelling experience.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of double entendre as a tool for subtext in layered conversations among characters.
  • Double entendre is an effective tool for subtext because it invites audiences to engage more deeply with the dialogue. When characters speak in ways that have dual meanings, it encourages viewers to read between the lines, thus enhancing their understanding of character motivations and relationships. The layered conversations created by double entendres not only enrich the narrative but also reflect real-life communication complexities, making stories more relatable and compelling.

Related terms

Subtext:

The underlying meaning or theme in dialogue that is not explicitly stated, providing deeper insight into characters' thoughts and motivations.

Irony: A rhetorical device where the intended meaning is opposite to the literal meaning, often creating humor or highlighting contradictions.

Puns: A form of wordplay that exploits multiple meanings of a term or similar-sounding words for humorous effect.