Double entendre

Definition

A double entendre is a figure of speech that has a double meaning, often used for humorous or suggestive purposes. It plays with language to create a secondary meaning that can be interpreted in different ways, allowing for subtext and deeper communication in dialogue. This term is particularly relevant when exploring how characters convey hidden meanings or layered emotions through their words, enhancing the richness of the narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Double entendres are commonly found in comedic writing, where the dual meanings can generate humor or wit.
2. This technique relies heavily on context; the meaning of a double entendre can shift based on the situation or character delivering it.
3. Writers often use double entendres to develop subtext, allowing characters to communicate hidden agendas or feelings without being overt.
4. In film and theater, double entendres can enhance character relationships and tensions by revealing unspoken truths through dialogue.
5. Understanding double entendres requires a keen awareness of cultural and social nuances, as meanings may vary across different audiences.

Review Questions

• How can a double entendre enhance subtext in dialogue?
  • A double entendre enhances subtext by allowing characters to express complex ideas or emotions without stating them outright. This creates layers of meaning that engage the audience, prompting them to think critically about what is being said versus what is implied. For instance, when a character makes a seemingly innocent remark that carries an underlying sexual implication, it adds depth to their interaction and reveals their true intentions or feelings.
• In what ways do double entendres contribute to character development in film and theater?
  • Double entendres contribute to character development by showcasing the wit, intelligence, or duplicity of characters. When a character uses a clever double entendre, it can reveal their personality traits, social status, or emotional state. For example, a character who frequently employs double entendres may come across as sophisticated and playful, while another who misunderstands them might be portrayed as naive or unsophisticated. This technique adds depth and complexity to character interactions.
• Evaluate the impact of cultural context on the interpretation of double entendres in dialogue.
  • The interpretation of double entendres heavily depends on cultural context, as meanings can shift dramatically based on societal norms and values. In some cultures, certain phrases may carry sexual connotations, while in others they might be seen as innocent banter. This variability highlights the importance of audience awareness; what is humorous or clever in one context could be offensive in another. Understanding these nuances helps writers craft dialogue that resonates with their intended audience while avoiding misinterpretations.

Related terms

Subtext:

The underlying meaning or message in dialogue that is not explicitly stated but inferred by the audience.

Irony: A rhetorical device where the intended meaning is opposite to the literal meaning, often used to create humor or emphasize a point.

Euphemism: A mild or indirect word or expression used to replace one that may be considered harsh or blunt, often serving as a means to imply more than what is directly said.