Double entendre

Definition

A double entendre is a figure of speech that has two interpretations, one of which is often risqué or ironic. This literary device enriches dialogue and narrative, allowing for subtext and layered conversations where the surface meaning diverges from a deeper implication. It creates an opportunity for humor, tension, or character development, inviting audiences to engage on multiple levels.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Double entendres are often used in comedy to create humor through ambiguity, allowing characters to communicate in a way that can be interpreted differently by different audiences.
2. This device can also enhance character development by revealing their personalities or intentions through what they choose to say and how it can be interpreted.
3. In drama, double entendres can create tension between characters, as one may understand the underlying meaning while the other does not, leading to conflict or misunderstanding.
4. They can serve as a tool for critique or social commentary, allowing writers to address serious topics in a more palatable or engaging manner.
5. Double entendres often rely on cultural context and audience awareness, meaning their effectiveness can vary based on the setting and the viewers’ experiences.

Review Questions

• How does a double entendre function to enhance subtext in conversations between characters?
  • A double entendre enhances subtext by providing layers of meaning that go beyond the literal interpretation of dialogue. When characters use double entendres, it allows them to convey thoughts or feelings indirectly, creating an underlying tension or humor that may not be immediately apparent. This adds depth to their interactions and invites the audience to look for hidden meanings, enriching the overall narrative experience.
• What role does irony play in the effectiveness of a double entendre in layered conversations?
  • Irony plays a critical role in making double entendres effective because it highlights the contrast between what is said and what is meant. This discrepancy can add humor or drama, especially if one character interprets the statement literally while another understands its deeper implication. The use of irony enhances engagement as the audience recognizes the cleverness behind the words and anticipates the reactions from characters based on their differing understandings.
• Evaluate how double entendres can serve as a means for social commentary within episodic dramas.
  • Double entendres can effectively serve as tools for social commentary by allowing writers to address complex themes in a subtle yet impactful manner. Through clever wordplay, writers can critique societal norms, challenge stereotypes, or highlight inequalities without being overtly confrontational. This layered approach invites audiences to reflect on deeper issues while enjoying the wit and humor present in the dialogue, fostering engagement and thoughtful discussion beyond the surface level.

Related terms

Subtext: The underlying meaning or theme in dialogue that is not explicitly stated but can be 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.

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