make a speech funny

40 Funny Speech Opening Lines: Make ‘Em Laugh Before You Even Begin!

Think of your speech opening line like the first bite of a delicious meal – it sets the tone and leaves you wanting more. A well-crafted, funny speech opening lines can instantly break the ice, make your audience feel at ease, and build anticipation for what’s to come.

But crafting that perfect line? It can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That’s why we’ve done the heavy lifting for you! If you read our article about “ How to Write a Powerful Speech Opening ?” you will get a full understanding of how to craft your speech opening.

Below, you’ll find 40 funny speech opening lines that cater to a wide range of topics and situations. Whether you’re addressing a formal business conference or a casual wedding reception, these lines will help you the ice and kick things off with a bang.

General Icebreakers

Everyone loves a good laugh, right? These funny speech opening lines are designed to do just that – break the ice and get your audience smiling. They’re perfect for any occasion where you want to start things off on a light and friendly note.

“Before we start, can everyone please look under their chairs? I lost my contact lens, and it might be a little blurry up here…”
“Good evening, everyone! Or as I like to call it, the part of the day where I try to sound smarter than I actually am.”
“It’s a pleasure to be here tonight. Or as my therapist would say, ‘It’s a start.'”
“Thank you for that warm welcome. I was worried you’d all be asleep by now.”
“Hello, everyone! I’m here to talk to you about [topic]. Or as my kids call it, ‘The thing that makes dad boring.'”
“Before I begin, I want to thank the person who invented coffee. You are the real MVP.”

Self-Deprecating Humor

Want to show your audience you don’t take yourself too seriously? Try poking a little fun at yourself ! These self-deprecating funny speech opening lines can help you appear more relatable and down-to-earth.

“I wasn’t sure what to wear tonight, so I asked my cat. He said, ‘Meow’ (which I think means ‘go for the tuxedo’).”
“I’d like to thank [person] for that glowing introduction. I must say, I’ve never heard myself described as so… fictional.”
“I’ve been practicing this speech in front of my dog. He hasn’t understood a word, but he sure does wag his tail a lot.”
“I’m a little nervous tonight, so bear with me. I’m not used to talking to people who aren’t my plants.”
“I promise to keep this speech short. My attention span is about as long as a goldfish’s.”
“I know what you’re thinking: ‘This guy doesn’t look like a public speaker.’ Well, you’re right. I’m actually a ninja in disguise.”

Situational Humor (Weddings, Business, etc.)

Every event has its unique flavor, and your opening line can reflect that! Use these tailored jokes to match the mood of your specific occasion.

(Wedding) “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s an honor to be here tonight. And for the single folks out there, don’t worry, your time will come. Or it won’t. Either way, there’s cake.”
(Business) “I’m here to talk to you about increasing productivity. But first, let’s be honest, who here is secretly checking their email?”
(Graduation) “Congratulations, graduates! You made it. Now go out there and prove your parents wrong about that whole ‘art history degree’ thing.”
(Birthday) “Happy birthday, [person]! You don’t look a day over… well, let’s just say you look amazing.”
(Retirement) “Congratulations on your retirement! Finally, you can stop pretending to know what the young people are talking about.”
(Awards) “I’m truly honored to receive this award. Although, I must admit, I was hoping for a cash prize.”

Read our funny maid of honor speeches guide if you plan to do a speech on your friend’s big day.

Pop Culture References

Do you love movies, TV shows, or music? Sprinkle in a pop culture reference! It’s a fun way to connect with your audience, especially if you share a common interest.

“I’m so nervous, I feel like I’m about to go on stage for the first time since my middle school production of ‘Grease.'”
“I’m not sure if I’m qualified to give this speech. I mean, I’ve never even won an Oscar.”
“If this speech were a Netflix series, it would be called ‘Awkward Silences and Dad Jokes.'”
“I hope my speech isn’t as forgettable as the last season of ‘Game of Thrones.'”

Audience Participation

Want to make your speech even more fun? Get your audience involved ! These funny speech opening lines are designed to spark interaction and create a lively atmosphere. They’ll help you build a connection with your listeners right from the start.

“Can I get a show of hands? Who here actually read my bio in the program?”
“Who’s excited to be here tonight? [Pause for response] Liars.”
“I have a joke, but it only works if you laugh. So, on the count of three, everyone laugh… One, two, three… [Pause] Well, that was awkward.”
“Let’s play a game. I’ll say a word, and you shout out the first thing that comes to mind. Ready? [Topic of your speech].”

Bonus Lines (Just for Fun)

Looking for something a little extra? These lines are just for fun. They might be a bit silly, but they’re sure to get a chuckle out of your audience.

“I’m not saying I’m lazy, but I once hired someone from fiverr to watch a YouTube video for me.”
“I’m so bad at math, I can’t even count the number of times I’ve said ‘I’m bad at math.'”
“I’m not a morning person. I’m barely even a person before noon.”
“I’m not sure why I was asked to give this speech. I think they confused me with someone who’s actually interesting.”
“My therapist told me to take up public speaking to overcome my fear of judgment. So, feel free to judge away!”
“I’ve been told I have a face for radio. But hey, I’m here, aren’t I?”
“I’m like a fine wine… I get better with age. Or at least, that’s what I tell myself.”
“I’m not saying I’m perfect, but I’ve never been wrong… yet.”
“I’m not sure what’s more nerve-wracking, giving this speech or trying to parallel park in front of all of you.”
“I’m so glad you all came to hear me speak. I was starting to worry I was only talking to myself.”
“I’m not sure what’s more confusing, the economy or my love life.”
“I’m like a box of chocolates… you never know what you’re gonna get. But hopefully, it’s not salmonella.”
“I’m not saying I’m old, but I remember when Netflix was just a DVD rental service.”
“I’m like a good book… worth sticking with until the end. Or at least, the first few chapters.”

Watch this compilation video of comedians delivering hilarious opening lines during their stand-up routines.

Remember, your opening line is your first chance to make a lasting impression. It’s your secret weapon to grab your audience’s attention and set the tone for an unforgettable speech.

We’ve covered a wide range of options to get you started:

General Icebreakers: Perfect for warming up any crowd with lighthearted humor.
Self-Deprecating Humor: Show your audience you don’t take yourself too seriously.
Situational Humor: Tailor your jokes to your specific event and audience.
Pop Culture References: Connect with your audience on a shared cultural level.
Audience Participation: Get everyone involved for a truly interactive experience.
Bonus Lines: Just for fun, because who doesn’t love a good laugh?

So, take a deep breath, step up to that microphone, and let your humor shine! Experiment with different types of speech opening lines until you find the perfect fit for your personality and your audience.

And if you’re ready to dive deeper into crafting a speech that truly resonates, don’t forget to check out our comprehensive guide on speech structure . It’ll give you all the tools you need to build a presentation that’s not only funny but also informative and engaging from start to finish.

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

414 Funny and Humorous Speech Topics [Persuasive, Informative, Impromptu]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Funny and humorous speech topics – for anyone who wants to talk about silly foolish, casual odd, infrequent rare, bizarre weird, aberrant uncommon, strange or crazy fun subjects. Modify the onliners for the best tailormade results of course!

In this article:

Informative

List of funny and humorous speech topics.

Boys gossip more than girls do.
Should Trix stop its discrimination and make them for everyone?
Blame your horoscope for why things went wrong
Why you should never take on a food challenge
Breakup insurance policy should be invented
Which came first: the chicken or the egg?
Why men shouldn’t wear skinny jeans
Vegetables have feelings – stop carrot cruelty
Camping: the fun and the not so fun
Why kids should make jokes in class
Why lying well can be helpful
Why I should marry Cameron Diaz
When nothing goes left, go right
Grown-ups are weird species
Blame your dog for things
Why getting lost is the best advice someone could give you
The reason grass appears greener on the other side is because it is probably fake.
In order to become old and wise, you must first be young and stupid.
Yes, you should write that down, because you will forget.
We can lie but our facial expressions can’t.
Life should come with background music.
Chocolate never asks stupid questions.
Sometimes when you need expert advice you should just have a chat with yourself.
In order to understand what life is all about you should hang out with a three year old.
The most dangerous animal out there is a silent woman.
We don’t mean to interrupt people’s conversations, it’s just that we remember random things and get really excited.
Wouldn’t it be great to have a six-month vacation twice a year?
Nothing sucks more than when you are in the middle of an argument and realize that you are wrong.
When you get older you will regret not taking all those naps as a child.
I sometimes feel that the internet could do with a sarcasm font.
Some of the bad decisions are necessary so you can have great stories to tell.
Sometimes you will need to keep a contact number on your phone so that you can avoid their nuisance calls.
How many times is it appropriate to say “excuse me”, before you give up and nod instead?
A woman’s “I will be ready in 5 minutes” is the same as a man’s “I will be home in 5 minutes”.
“We will see” means it’s probably not going to happen.
Adults these days can barely do Math without using a calculator but are always claiming to have X amount of problems.
Being an adult is not an easy task.
Life feels very much like a test I didn’t study for.
You are not weird; you are just a limited edition.
There is no need to sugar coat everything, we can’t all be Willy Wonka.
Not everyone will like you and that is okay because not everyone has good taste.
Most people make mistakes five or six times, just to be sure.
Be happy, it drives people crazy!
Before you marry someone you should see how they react to slow internet.
Alcohol clearly increases the size of the send button.
We all need a day in which we can be just as useless as the ‘g’ in lasagne.
Those who say they slept like a baby have obviously never had a baby.
No, underarm farts are not an impressive party trick.
Why do we panic when our phones fall but laugh when our friends do?
Why do we remember all the things we forgot to do once we are in bed?
Stop telling people that your baby is 28 months old!
Cinderella is proof that a new pair of shoes can change your life.
Why people calculate how many hours of sleep they will get.
What is it with men and remote control buttons?
Behind every great man is a woman rolling her eyes.
It is probably wise to keep your Mom off of Facebook.
Clowns are scary and this is why.
The true list of Christmas gifts I would like to give my family.
Why Mondays should be banned.
It is not okay to be 30 and still live with your parents.
Men gossip more than women.
Stop bragging about being at the gym – nobody cares!
We can lie to the world, but not to ourselves.
You should never start your diet on a Monday.
By plans I mean I want to stay home and watch Netflix.
Why you should smile and wave when someone insults you.
If you are going to be two-faced at least make one of them pretty.
Some people truly believe that they know everything, do they think their name is google?
I wish the world would shock me by saying something intelligent.
Women shouldn’t treat their faces like a colouring book.
Some people are so fake, that Barbie is starting to get jealous.
You are always entitled to your own incorrect opinion.
Do people expect us to take notes when they tell us what to do?
Just because it fits it doesn’t mean that it actually fits.
It’s okay, you can explain yourself out of compromising positions.
Auto correct could ruin your life.
Some people are all bark but no bite.
Why read the book when you can just watch the movie?
Growing old is mandatory but growing up is completely optional.
Money does talk and it usually likes to say ‘bye-bye’.
The good news is that if today is the worst day of your life, then you know that tomorrow will be better.
Some of the best people out there are crazy.
Common sense is a flower that does not grow in everyone’s garden.
Sometimes you just need to take a nap and get over it.
Daddy is the boss until Mommy gets home.
To avoid trouble, you must always cut a toddler’s sandwich in the correct shape.
People often lie on a first date so that they can secure the second one.
Why wrong is wrong even if everyone is doing it.
Yes, actually you can have your cake and eat it too!
You should never be the party pooper.
Disney movies are great until they all start singing.
“Too busy” is just a myth.
Teenagers need to remember that not that long ago they use to beg their mothers to watch them poop.
Wouldn’t it be great if when we took a long nap people would be proud of us like they are when kids do?
You know it is going to be a long day when your partner is upset about something you did in their dream.
Sometimes our greatest accomplishment is to just keep quiet.
Why Math feels like Mental Abuse To Humans.
You need to marry the person who gives you the same feeling you get when you see food coming at a restaurant.
Touch a pregnant belly at your own risk.
If you mess with the bull you will get the horns.
Why exactly did ‘that’s cool’ become ‘that’s hot’?
People must stop randomly using the word ‘random’ for everything.
How not wearing any makeup makes people think you are sick these days.
LOL is usually what people reply with when they have nothing else to say.
Why exactly is it called a crush?
If Cinderella’s shoe fit perfectly in the end, why did it fall off in the first place?
The only reason why we should want to go back in time is to repeat the fun parts.
When we start to question if a word even exists.
Before Facebook I had a life.
Smile while you still have teeth.
Why laughter is the best medicine.
Three reasons why … (fill in your favorite cheerleader team here) will win the Superbowl this year.
Fainting for high school is pretty common and often not a sign of something serious.
Why rose is the best flowers’ fragrance many women like.
Girls under 12 should not be allowed to wear makeup.
Wendy’s / Burger King / McDonald’s (choose your fast food restaurant) has the best service and consumer complaint codes of conduct.
My favorite Agent 007 James Bond is … (fill in the actor / actress of your choice here. Or do choose another movie hero for alternative humorous persuasive speech topics)
Design your own How Cool Are You test and persuade your audience to take it.
Seven signs that she is a real bitch type, and ways how to handle her.
Five requirements to be called a bestie by girlfriends.
Three symptoms that show you are definitely addicted to online quizzes.
Fingerprints are unique for every human.
Diet or regular drinks: it doesn’t matter at all what you drink.
We should adapt the Chinese Calender / National Calendar of India.
We should print small fun items on our coins that symbolizes our nation.
What you should wear / not wear when giving a prom speech.
Presidential running mates are politicians who were not able to reach the top themselves.
How to get – more – Valentine Day cards next year.
Nomen est omen (latin for name is omen) occurs more often than you think.
Kung fu training skills should be mandatory for college and high school sports girls and women teachers.
Vampires and ghosts are only historical legend figures, nevertheless they have much impact on our society when it comes to superstition.
Thirteen is a lucky number.
Why there are so many kangaroo, wombats, sheep and koalas in Australia.
Why Rumpulstilskin is my favorite fairy tale.
People prefer a clean shaven face instead of a beard or mustache.
Dating someone who is much older than you are is the only way to date.
Love at first sight really does exist.
Lady Gaga has beaten Britney Spears.
Men like action and women like romantic movies.
Boyfriends must act romantic.
(fill in the title of the song of your choice) is the funniest song ever.
The Human cannonball stunt should be an entertainment event at our next campus event.
Jay Leno is funny because he has good joke writers.
Having a third arm is better than a third leg.
Leather belts with a large buckle look good on guys.
Experiencing the thrill of a Space Shuttle trip is too expensive.
Why it’s a good idea to always google a person before you meet her or him for the first time.
Ten ways to use Twitter with fun public speaking purposes in a maximum of 140 characters.
Why many students rather text a friend than call her/him.
Bingo competitions keep grandmas off the streets.
Don’t take life too seriously – and yourself 🙂
How to get rid of boring blind dates.
Blaming your dog for everything that goes wrong is an old way-out.
99% percent of the blonds are not stupid at all.
How to annoy the passenger next to you on a flight.
The beneficial effects of smoking.
Some phrases you use to be funny but actually turn out to be boring.
Jerry Springer ruined America
Dessert should always be served before dinner
Golf and Poker: Two things that should never be televised
Personal things you should always keep to yourself
Department stores shouldn’t be allowed to sell ugly clothing
Why you should leave the marriage counseling tips to the marriage counselors
Facebook is ruining lives every day
Why the perfect husband just doesn’t exist
Pigs have better manners than most men
Rain: It really does have a smell
Women are much better at handling pain than men
Why famous people must have a crew of makeup artists and hair stylists following them around all day
Why Subway is a total rip off
Totally useless professions
If only men spent as much time working on their relationships as they do focusing on sports
Parent fails
Why everyone wants a pet monkey
What happens in high school doesn’t really matter all that much

Once you have chosen a topic, you will need to compose the speech structure. This sample of outline will help you getting started. The example topic is: “How to convince the teacher that a household pet ate your homework.”

Start the talk by introducing yourself. For example, “Good Morning, my name is ____.” Then, go for the “gold.” Hit the audience with a statement or question that will grab their attention immediately. Another example: “Who remembers using the excuse that my dog ate my term paper?”

The body of the speech: Three points Hopefully, with the audience waiting with baited breath, the time is ripe to hit them with three good reasons for them to listen to, and agree with, what is being said.

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

Your sister’s pet hamster died, and she needed a small piece of paper to wrap the body in and used your homework paper.
Your brother was making bedding for his pet gerbil and ran out of newspaper to cut into strips and used your term paper instead.
Your new dog has been trained to pee on newspaper on the floor, and your homework papers had slipped off the kitchen counter, and, well….

Closing argument More than three points can be made, if indicated. But at least three points should always be used. To close your argument, summarize and end with a strong reason why the audience should agree with you. For example, “With the number and variety of pets available today, one does not have to use the family dog all the time as an excuse for not doing one’s homework.”

Reverse thinking and applying jokes are possible instruments for inventing lots of amusing and droll funny topic for persuasive speech tips and more expanded funny different from standard or daily norm hints and clues for rationalistic speeches.

How to make fun every day in life.
The unusual and abnormal working of Murphy’s Law – if anything can go wrong, it will go wrong.
Chasing idle dreams is a good habit.
Unexpected disasters that can happen.
Absurd and laughable job applicant stories.
How I choose friends far away and maintain those relationships.
People with mediocre talents have success and high talented people haven’t.
Why my – any funny speech topics – looks cooler than the… of my neighbour.
Rare speed limits and the reasons why.
When I resign, I will …
My fantasy jokes and humor multiplier x factor
My motto: I’m flexible by indecision.
Ways to remember birthdays on the presents you got.
For her / him who doesn’t have to do it, nothing is impossible.
How to give your dog or cat a pill.
Why men are proud of themselves.
How to cheat poker the nice way.
Why I don’t want to be a millionaire.
Eating flowers is possible.
How to determine you are addicted to the Internet.
Wine / beer / cocktail of the month.
How to be a charming host at any event.
Demonstrate tasting wine in a waggish way.
If I was my boss, then …
Happy puppies make humans happy.
How to deny reality.
Ten fun things to do during exams.
Urban running acrobatics.
10 ways to order pizzas and make the Italian food restaurant owner crazy.
Your guides to life are angels.
How to throw a paper airplane in class.
Ten things you’ve learned from your pet.
Personal bloopers are great funny topics for a speech.
My most profitable mistake.
Funny computer terms and phrases.
What women really say when they talk to men.
Answers on the meaning of life.
Funny holidays in other countries.
How foreigners must sound when speaking to natives in their language
Card games that hardly require any skill
What my dog would tell me if he could talk
What the popular kids are like 15 years after graduation
Words that are hard to say while drunk
The best cures for a hangover
The truth about bromance
Where did swear words come from?
If our children had to deal with the computers we had back in the day…
The worst nicknames you’ve been given
A time when you were glad you were you
The male brain vs. the female brain
What to do if you’re being hit on by a complete weirdo
The advantages of being a woman
The advantages of being a man
The things women go through just to look pretty
If men had a menstrual cycle
Does anyone ever clean public restrooms?
How one dog had 101 Dalmatian puppies
How to create a new word that other people will actually use
How to boil water
How to get fired in less than 24 hours
How to create monsters out of your children
How to train your cat to be like a dog
How to be remembered in high school
How to make lemonade out of lemons (figuratively)
The art of pretending to listen when your spouse is talking
If women had mute buttons
If men were more emotional than women
Why babies act very similar to drunk adults
What to do if you burn the turkey at Thanksgiving
The ugliest fashions of today
The newest slang terms and what they really mean
What men really think about women
What women really think about men
My worst road rage stories
PMS: Because men have it too
The dumbest thing I ever did while drunk
As a kid, I thought I knew it all. Boy, was I wrong
A day at Spencer’s
So, what do people really think when they see your 1,001 selfies?
Best pranks to use on your spouse
Why kids are lucky they are cute
The best and only way to make your kids leave you alone
Why I could never be a doctor
When baby is left with dad all day…
How incompetent people manage to make it through the day
Review the challenge to find mentally strange funny speech topics in 24 hours.
Women marry much younger men.
Bare funny facts about men.
Funny facts about women.
Rules men wish women knew.
How to become a rat and make a fortune.
Funny first date experiences.
A true story that ain’t be true in the end …
Unusual incidents.
Helpful pinball strategies.
Reveal the real names of celebrities.
Extreme golf courses around the world.
How to cope with a Feng Shui consultant.
Hidden subliminal messages in songs.
Funny names, name meaning or nomen est omen.
Top 5 most stupid questions and answers.
Clean jokes that are safe for the whole family.
Optical illusions in art, also called trompe-loeil.
Fun houseplants in your home.
How to decorate a really weird Thanksgiving table.
Time capsules you like to find.
How to discover who send you a Valentine card.
Moving Christmas lights that drive your neighbours crazy.
Criteria for a childproof X-mas tree.
How to attract hundreds of birds in record time.
Unique nativity scene figures.
Strange New Year resolutions.
Cliches, figures and any text to speech that should be banned.
What dreams mean.
What to do on a desert island.
Top 5 bad business slogans.
What I like to invent for mankind.
How to pretend to be a good international exchange student.
What to write in a message in a bottle if you’re trapped on an island.
Things to do in a traffic jam.
Kids should get more pocket money.
What do I have to do to receive free chicken?
Imagine your life as a grandpa / grandma
How to be lazy like a pro
What teachers do when they’re not teaching
Ten ways to annoy your parents
Being the oldest/youngest sibling
How to feed your dog your homework
If video game characters were real
Why did the duck cross the road?
How to looks smarter than you are
A narrow escape from trouble
It was an unusual friendship
Eating things you don’t like
Fear of 12th grade
Getting water from a rock
Zombie protection
20 weird-sounding words and what they mean
The worst holiday ever
If you ruled the world
Fun with super glue
How to catch a cold
Short girl problems.
I am not anti-social, I am just selectively social.
Things only people that wear glasses can relate to.
How not to get a date.
What not to say on a first date.
A snoring partner costs you a few years of sleep in a lifetime.
What we can learn from animals when they are looking for food.
Why people look like their dogs.
Three ways to write the best gift card for birthday parties.
Five ways to keep going a boring conversation at a cocktail party.
How to act like you are an earth-friendly person.
Tricks to remember names when you forget them all the time.
Ways to live on the cheap spending as little money as you can.
How to drive unwanted visitors crazy by painting a psychedelic wall mural.
Women want bright-colored, funny and worthless goodies as a gift.
Do’s and don’ts when visiting a new mother and her little newborn crying out loud baby.
Being rude is the only way to get off telemarketers.
Tips to take toll high ways or bridges without paying a penny.
Let others pay your holiday trips with the perfect collect call strategy.
Decorating your college apartment with a low budget according to the latest furniture fashion trends.
How to handle well-meaning people you do not like and try to avoid by all means.
Effective optical cleaning methods for your home shortly before your parents arrive.
The ten commandments in a restaurant boys and girls room.
How to drive the baby-sitter crazy in one hour.
Tips for choosing a practical lunch box, and above all a cool one.
Behaving requirements in a chique restaurant when having a dinner with your parents.
Ways to re-use stickers that are not sticky anymore.
Odd shaped ice cubes in a snap in the coller fridge at home.
Three fun games to play at beach without a ball.
Sleeping a night in the backyard with a friend.
The funniest amusement parks you have been in your life.
How to design your own personal placemat.
How to be the perfect gentleman or lady.
10 things you better not say in court.
Fun things to do on the first day of class or the last day of the high school season.
Words that are hard to say when you’re drunk.
The advantages women think of being a man.
Humorous names you can laugh about.
Why women say they hate sports.
The 3 biggest lies on the work floor.
New York City driving rules explained.
Inappropriate Christmas gifts.
10 ways to irritate a telemarketer.
What are the signs you have had enough to drink.
10 ways to freak out your roommate with special dorm room supplies.
How to train a cat, or dog or other pet to show fun tricks.
How to make pictures of a new puppy.
Why nerds rule our society and not creative artists.
Why you shouldn’t give marriage advice or marriage counseling tips.
How to reach your goals with humor.
The story of the perfect husband.
Gift wrapping tips for men.
How to prepare fancy meals using only frozen dinners
Why men are so terrible at wrapping gifts
If you want to know the truth about yourself, have a kid
Why Donald Trump doesn’t invest more money into his hair
Funny things kids say that adults couldn’t get away with saying
The dumbest things American criminals have done
Topics that aren’t meant to be discussed in public
My guiltiest pleasures revealed
Things you shouldn’t say while on a date
How to confuse a telemarketer
Things no one really knows how to do/say
If I ever met Will Ferrell
The dumb things my cat/dog/pet does almost daily
How to pull off taking a “sick day” after your sports team loses miserably
The meaning behind some nursery rhymes
The dumbest thing I’ve ever done
The cool way to clean up doggy doo-doo
My thoughts about Napoleon Dynamite
How to find the penny your baby just swallowed
The weirdest names celebrity parents have given their children
Why you should never call the number on the bathroom stall
The most embarrassing thing I ever wore
What to do if your blind date is a horrible failure
Surefire ways to get out of a speeding ticket
The difference between Taylor Swift and Kanye West

Many writers have joked about speaking without a script in front of groups or answering questions without any preparation. They are right.

Think about it: when your professor asks you to prepare an impromptu; well, it seems to be a contradictio in terminis, a funny contrast in terms.

More than you presume. Why don’t you study these task verbs and prepare yourself better than the rest in your class? In general, the more convincing and relaxed a motivational speaker performs without a text to speech, the more she or he has anticipated at home. And that’s often the case.

Analyse –> Examine closely pros and cons of dating by means of a sugar daddy website. Do write with humor, otherwise choose other good funny impromptu speech topics.
Argue –> Provide evidence that something is in and not out in fashion.
Assess –> Determine the value of a Moon property certificate. Yes, they really exist in the real and also virtual world. And people tend to pay for it too 🙂
Compare –> Discuss the quality of a being humble instead of yelling a way through life.
Contrast –> Differences between women and men in dating habits.
Criticize –> Judge the daily television weather forecast.
Define –> Make clear what The Meaning of Life is, according to Monty Python Brian in the movie The Holy Grail.
Describe –> List the do’s and don’ts for a man during a romantic dinner for two.
Discuss –> The against of a fantasy resume at LinkedIn.
Enumerate –> Present the steps to simple life.
Evaluate –> The usefulness of uselessness homework assignments. One of the favorite persuasive speech topics of my daughter 🙂
Explain –> Make clear why we do fart, and why it’s healthy.
Illustrate –> What does illustrate mean in the context of a funny impromptu speech topics assignment?
Interpret –> The value of horse racing stats for gamblers.
Justify –> The end justify the means no matter how unethical or immoral, ahum 🙂
Outline –> How to make a funny cartoon character of your professor or public speaking instructor step-by-step.
Prove –> Inventing a time machine is possible …
Review –> Describe critically a hangover the day after you had a party.
Summarize –> Principles of funny tv advertising commercials.
Trace –> The effective step-by-step method to make studying a bit more fun.

104 Environmental Speech Topics [Persuasive, Informative]

10 Salutatorian Speech Ideas Multi-Functional

23 thoughts on “414 Funny and Humorous Speech Topics [Persuasive, Informative, Impromptu]”

Just blame the youngest

Tall girl Problems

Why road trips are better with boy and not girls

troubles of being the youngest sibling/child!

Trouble being the oldest sibling/having a younger one

why you should do zumba with morgan from morgans zumba fittness ( MZF )

how covid-19 affected the world

Adults don’t understand kids

Why you should read those emails from your royal Nigerian Prince!

What if all the conspiracy theories that many people believed in were actually true

Why kids should go to boarding school

How can you hear yourself think?

Why 2020’s official flag should be a mask

The troubles of high school : should we care?

Thes are great topics who wrote them

The Friday the 13th theory.

i have a great speech thanks to you and i know heaps others that have them to so tthank you

things I don’t understand

OMG THANKS I NOW I HAVE SPEECH THATS DUE TOMMOROW AND I HAVE IDEAS THANKS TO YOU LIFE SAVERS!!!!! 🙂

What you would do if your best friend committed a crime.

Why we procrastinate and make things harder for ourselves.

why taylor swift is the music industry

nomen est omen is not-

nomen means name est means is omen means sign

((i’m a latin student))

I accept the Privacy Policy

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Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi.

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100 Public-Speaking Jokes to Add Humor to Your Next Speech

So, if you are looking to add humor to your presentation, one of the best ways is to insert self-deprecating humor in the form of funny stories. A good story from your own personal experience will be easier to insert into your speech. The story will also create more of a shared experience with your audience. For details about how to use stories to add humor to your speech , click here.

With that being said, though, sometimes, you just need to get a quick laugh out of your audience. And good jokes can be a great way to lighten the mood. We’ve organized the post into four categories of public-speaking jokes.

100 Public Speaking Jokes to Add Humor to Your Next Speech.

Public-Speaking Jokes .
One-Liners about Public Speaking and Presenting .
Funny Public Speaking Quotes .
Dad Jokes that You Can Use as Presentation Icebreakers .

Want to beat stage fright, articulate with poise, and land your dream job? See how you score on our 2-minute public speaking assessment and get the Fearless Presenter’s Playbook for FREE!

Public-Speaking Jokes for Your Next Presentation to Add a Little Fun.

Between you and I, telling jokes in front of an audience is pretty risky. But sometimes, just getting the audience to laugh right from the start can lighten the mood. Here are a few jokes about public speaking that you can use when you are public speaking.

Jokes about Being Nervous and the Fear of Public Speaking

7 Presentation Habits that Make Your Nervous Speaker

Why did the public speaker hire a pitching coach? Because he needed to improve his delivery!
I used to think I was afraid of public speaking, but just now, I realized I was actually afraid of audiences.
A public speaker asked the audience, “How many of you are afraid of public speaking?” About half the audience raised their hands. The speaker replied, “Don’t worry, I used to be too. In fact, there was a 50/50 chance that I’d canceled today’s talk!”
My wife was nervous about public speaking. So, I told her she should embrace her mistake to add a little humor to her delivery. She gave me a hug. Then she laughed.
Public speaking tip: Imagine the audience naked. But not if you’re giving a eulogy.

Funny Jokes about Presentation Challenges.

Okay, funny may be a little overexaggerated, but corny can work too. Here are a few jokes about challenges that can come up in a presentation.

Why did the PowerPoint presentation go to therapy? It had too many issues with transitions.
I was going to tell a time-traveling joke during my speech, but you didn’t like it.
I asked the librarian if there were any books on how to overcome the fear of public speaking. She whispered, “They’re in the self-help section, but you might have to speak up to find them.”
I used to be a baker before I became a public speaker. I kneaded the dough, and now I need the audience!
Why did the public speaker become a gardener? Because he knew how to plant ideas and watch them grow!

These Jokes Are about Audience Interaction.

I asked the audience if anyone had experience with public speaking. A cricket in the corner started chirping.
The best way to become a confident public speaker is to imagine the audience in their underwear. Unless you’re speaking at a nudist colony.
I told my wife I was going to give a speech on procrastination. She said, “Maybe next time.”
How do you make a tissue dance during a speech? You put a little boogie in it!
Why did the extroverted computer become a public speaker? Because it had great social networking skills!

Public Speaking Jokes about Presentation Themes.

These funny (or corny) jokes are about the process of public speaking. You can easily use one of these if you start with… “Before I actually start my presentation…” then add the joke.

I asked my friend if he had any advice for public speaking. He said, “Yes, just imagine the audience is full of cats. They don’t care what you’re saying, but they’ll pay attention if you have treats.”
How do you organize a fantastic space-themed presentation? You planet!
Why did the public speaker bring a ladder to the presentation? To reach new heights in communication!
My friend tried to give a speech on patience, but the audience left before he finished. It seems they didn’t have the patience for it.
Why did the microphone apply for a job in public speaking? Because it wanted to be heard at work!

A Few Random Public Speaking Jokes (Use with Caution.)

These last few public speaking jokes are a little more tricky. You’d want to save these only for the right type of crowd.

I used to be afraid of public speaking, but then I realized it’s just talking in front of people. Now I’m terrified of public listening.
What’s a public speaker’s favorite kind of fish? The articulate!
I told my friend I was giving a speech about a famous chicken. He asked, “Is it poultry in motion?”
I was going to make a joke about public speaking, but I figured it would be better in front of a live audience.
Why did the scarecrow become a great public speaker? He was outstanding in his field!

Remember, just adding a joke or two to a speech won’t win over every audience. For help becoming a confident and effective presenter, we invite you to attend one of our 2-Day Fearless Presentations ® Classes . Click here for details.

Here Are a Few Public Speaking One-Liners to Get Your Audience Laughing.

You’ll have a much easier time just adding a funny one-liner every now and then. When you tell a joke, you typically have to get your audience to respond. And, in some cases, the audience will finish your joke.

So a well-placed one-liner will often get you a quick chuckle without as much risk. Here are a few that we organized into five different categories.

These One-Liners Are Related to Audience Interaction (Or Audience Reactions.)

“I’m not saying I’m a great public speaker, but I did once get a standing ovation… because I tripped over the microphone cord.”
“I asked my audience if they had any questions after my speech. One person raised their hand and asked, ‘When does the torture end?'”
“Public speaking is easy. It’s like riding a bike. Except the bike is on fire, you’re on fire, everything is on fire, and you’re in hell.”
“I used to be afraid of public speaking until I realized every audience is just a bunch of people hoping you don’t notice them.”
“I gave a speech on procrastination. The audience is still waiting for the punchline.”

Here Are a Few about Speech Techniques and Styles.

“I asked the audience if they knew the definition of a will. Apparently, ‘a dead giveaway’ wasn’t the right answer.”
“I don’t have a fear of public speaking; I have a fear of public not listening.”
“Why don’t public speakers ever get lost? Because they always find their way to the lectern.”
“I used to be a mime, but I couldn’t stay silent about it. Now I’m a public speaker.”
“I told the audience I’d be speaking off the cuff. Turns out, my cuff was more interesting than my speech.”

That’s Ironic! One Liners about Humor and Irony in Speech

“I used to be a public speaker at a mime convention. Needless to say, my speeches were a big hit.”
“I asked the audience if they could define irony. They said, ‘Sure, it’s like goldy and bronzy, but made of iron.'”
“Public speaking is a lot like a roller coaster. It’s terrifying, and I always feel like I’m going to lose my lunch.”
“I used to be a motivational speaker, but then I lost my train of thought. Now I’m just a ‘meh’-tivational speaker.”
“Why did the public speaker bring a ladder to the speech? To reach the high points, of course!”

These One-Liners Are about Speech Topics and Delivery.

“I told the audience I’m going to talk about time travel. They’re still waiting for my future self to arrive.”
“I tried to give a speech on humility, but everyone said I was the best at it.”
“Why did the public speaker get an award? Because he was outstanding in his field of expertise – corn farming.”
“I asked the crowd if they liked my tie. They said, ‘It’s not the tie, it’s what you’re saying that’s knot working.'”
“I tried to make a speech about sleep, but I dozed off during my own presentation.”

Funny One-Liners Related to the Challenges of Public Speaking.

“I asked the audience for silence during my speech. Apparently, their laughter didn’t get the memo.”
(If your audience won’t give you feedback.) “Dialogue is like a parachute – it only works when it’s open.”
(If you happen to break wind because of nervousness.) “I’m not a nervous public speaker. I just have a very expressive colon.”
“I told my wife I’m writing a book on public speaking. She told me to speak louder.”
“Why did the PowerPoint file go to therapy? It had too many issues with transitions.”

Funny Motivational Quotes Related to Public Speaking.

A really good way to add humor to any speech is to insert a funny quote from a famous person. These funny motivational quotes are very easy to insert. In fact, you can add them to your speech introduction right at the start. That will lighten the tension in the room and get your audience laughing.

Here are a few that always hit home!

Funny Quotes About Preparation and Delivery of Speech.

“The human brain starts working the moment you are born and never stops until you stand up to speak in public.” – George Jessel
“It usually takes more than three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech.” – Mark Twain
“Speak clearly, if you speak at all; carve every word before you let it fall.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.
“A good speech should be like a woman’s skirt; long enough to cover the subject and short enough to create interest.” – Winston Churchill
“The best way to sound like you know what you’re talking about is to know what you’re talking about.” – Author Unknown

Quotes Related to Adding Humor to Your Speech.

If you are looking for a famous quote specifically about adding humor to a speech, try one of these.

“The first time I spoke in the West, the agents and organizers looked at me and said, ‘Oh, my God, she’s funny.’ And I thought, ‘Oh, my God, I’ve been funny all my life, but I never knew it.'” – Maya Angelou
“If you can’t make it good, at least make it look good.” – Bill Gates
“I have as much authority as the Pope. I just don’t have as many people who believe it.” – George Carlin
“The trouble with talking too fast is you may say something you haven’t thought of yet.” – Ann Landers
“I used to be a good communicator, but then I realized I was talking to myself.” – Author Unknown

Here Are a Few Quotes About Creativity and Writing.

“I’m writing a book. I’ve got the page numbers done.” – Steven Wright
“I used to play piano by ear, but now I use my hands.” – Steven Wright
“I love deadlines. I like the whooshing sound they make as they fly by.” – Douglas Adams
“I don’t need time. What I need is a deadline.” – Duke Ellington
“I can’t understand why I flunked American history. When I was a kid, my father took me to all the historic spots. Every time I refused to get out of the car.” – W.C. Fields

The Funny Quotes Can Help You Make Your Point Better.

Like the last group, these funny quotes aren’t about public speaking. But you will likely be able to use them if you are delivering an informative speech.

“The only thing to do with good advice is to pass it on. It is never of any use to oneself.” – Oscar Wilde
“I have never been in a situation where having a sense of humor and a giving spirit didn’t lead to a better result.” – Ed Catmull
“The best way to convince a fool that he is wrong is to let him have his way.” – Josh Billings
“I like to talk about my obsession with food. I love to eat. I’m not a ‘foodie,’ but I do love to eat.” – Miranda Kerr
“I failed public speaking in college the first time and made a ‘D’ in the second class. It was horrible.” – John Grisham

These Last Funny Quotes Didn’t Fit the Other Categories. (LOL!)

These last quotes didn’t really fit in any of the other categories. But they are pretty funny. If you can find a way to insert them into your speech, you’re sure to get a laugh or two.

“It’s hard to be serious when you’re surrounded by balloons.” – Jerry Seinfeld
“I have six locks on my door, all in a row. When I go out, I lock every other one. I figure no matter how long somebody stands there picking the locks, they are always locking three.” – Elayne Boosler
“The early bird might get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.” – Willie Nelson
“I used to be a heavy gambler. But now I just make mental bets. That’s how I lost my mind.” – Steve Allen

Dad Jokes that You Can Use as Presentation Icebreakers.

Years ago, I taught a leadership class for his team. And at the start of every session, he stood up in front of the group and told a corny Dad joke. The jokes were cringy. But whether the audience laughed or turned up their nose, they all smiled. Over the next few years, I noticed that Ron’s employee turnover was almost zero. It was unheard of in his industry.

It turns out that his team absolutely loved him. He made a tough job much more fun to come to. So, I changed my tune about Dad jokes. Here are a few that you can use to start your next speech or meeting.

Food Public Speaking Jokes

What do you call fake spaghetti? An impasta.
Did you hear about the cheese factory explosion? There was nothing left but de-brie.
What do you call a fish wearing a crown? A kingfish.
Why did the chicken go to the seance? To talk to the other side.
What did the grape say when it got stepped on? Nothing, it just let out a little wine.

Science and Technology Jokes.

Why don’t scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything.
I told my computer I needed a break, and now it won’t stop sending me vacation ads.
Did you hear about the guy who invented Lifesavers? He made a mint.
How does a penguin build its house? Igloos it together!
What did one wall say to the other wall? I’ll meet you at the corner!

Academic Jokes for a Presentation.

Why did the math book look sad? Because it had too many problems.
Did you hear about the mathematician who’s afraid of negative numbers? He’ll stop at nothing to avoid them.
What do you call a factory that makes good products? A satisfactory.
I only know 25 letters of the alphabet. I don’t know y.
I used to have a job at a calendar factory, but I got fired because I took a couple of days off.

Spooky Jokes

Why did the skeleton go to the seance? To talk to the other side.
Why don’t skeletons fight each other? They don’t have the guts.
What did the big flower say to the little flower? “Hi, bud!”
I went to buy some camouflage pants, but I couldn’t find any.
What did one hat say to the other hat? Stay here, I’m going on ahead.

Miscellaneous Jokes

I only know how to make holy water. I boil the hell out of it.
Why did the golfer bring two pairs of pants? In case he got a hole in one.
Why did the bicycle fall over? It was two-tired.
What did the janitor say when he jumped out of the closet? Supplies!
What did the snowman with a six-pack say? An abdominal snowman!

presentation skills | humor , jokes

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Speechwriting

How to Write a Funny Speech

Last Updated: April 18, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Patrick Muñoz . Patrick is an internationally recognized Voice & Speech Coach, focusing on public speaking, vocal power, accent and dialects, accent reduction, voiceover, acting and speech therapy. He has worked with clients such as Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria, and Roselyn Sanchez. He was voted LA's Favorite Voice and Dialect Coach by BACKSTAGE, is the voice and speech coach for Disney and Turner Classic Movies, and is a member of Voice and Speech Trainers Association. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 174,513 times.

Writing a speech is already a challenge, so why bother adding humor? Successful humor will relax the audience, making them more attentive and receptive. It can break down perceived barriers between you and the audience, fostering a sense of camaraderie with the audience. Read on to learn how to use humor to your advantage when giving a speech. [1] X Research source

Choosing Your Topic

Think about -- and then make -- a list of things you know a lot about or enjoy talking about. Single out the topics you’re knowledgeable about but also know you can be funny about. This might rule out topics that are hard to joke about, like poverty, domestic violence, etc.
Use this list (in combination with the next step) to select a potential topic.

What’s the general age of your audience?
What do your audience members have in common?
What kind of speech are they expecting to hear?
What kind of humor are they likely to appreciate?

Step 3 Determine whether the speech should be humorously informative or just humorous.

If you’re writing a speech whose primary goal is to convey information or ideas, you’ll want to integrate humor while focussing on the ideas you want to convey. So draft the informative parts of your speech first, then integrate jokes and humor.
If you’re writing a speech whose primary goal is humor -- perhaps a satire or parody -- then you’ll want the humor center stage from the beginning. Choose a topic that lends itself to your sense of humor as well as to what the audience is likely to find amusing.

Writing Your Speech

Remember to choose a specific topic -- if your main idea/topic is too broad, you won’t do it justice in a relatively short speech. Choose something that you can describe in reasonable depth in the time allotted.
For example, if you’re writing a humorously informative speech about early American cinema, your main idea might be, “the advent of sound in film hurt rather than helped the medium by detracting from its visual potential”. This is specific enough not to be overwhelming while still leaving you room to develop substantial supporting points.
If, on the other hand, you’re writing a satirical speech, say, about reality television, your main idea might be, “nothing has contributed more to the cultural and intellectual richness of American society than reality television”.

Mine your own unique experiences for inspiration. "It's always good to take something that's happened in your life and make something of it comedically."

Write down your main idea.
Below it, write out everything that comes to mind when you think about that idea. Use whatever visual or textual brainstorming method you prefer (eg, clustering, listing, freewriting, etc.).
Eliminate anything that’s too far away from the topic, that you don’t feel comfortable discussing, or that would require too much time and depth to cover.

I. Introduction (where you state your main topic and the points you’ll make)
II. Main point one
III. Main point two
IV. Main point three
V. Conclusion (in which you sum up the main points, re-state your main idea, and issue a call to action from the audience, if appropriate)

Effective hooks include humorous personal anecdotes, surprising or entertaining examples, or direct questions to the audience that invite their participation and give them a chance to laugh at themselves. [10] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source
For example, if you’re writing a speech about studying abroad, you might start by asking if anyone has ever wished they had an accent or intentionally faked one. You can then suggest they do it right and live somewhere they’ll actually have a legitimate accent.

Err on the side of clarity over style, subtlety or artistry. Unlike a written piece, a speech is as much about delivery as it is about content, and the audience will be less attuned to the intricacies of sentence construction and more attuned to your overall message and the expressions as you give it.
Avoid overly long and complicated sentences. Long and difficult sentences will be hard to follow. Simplify your point and/or break complicated sentences into smaller, more easily digested ideas.

Step 6 Use vivid and specific adjectives.

For example, a word like “incendiary” is both more vivid, specific, and aurally interesting than a word such as “controversial”. “Incendiary” communicates the idea of something explosively provocative, while “controversial” is a more general term for something that generates disagreement.

Incorporating Humor

Step 1 Work humor into the text, once you have the foundation of your speech.

Consider generational differences with humor -- use references and jokes that address topical issues for that age group. For example, if you’re writing a speech about volunteering to an audience of high school students, relate the information in your speech to specific things and events relevant to teenagers. You might make a joke about volunteering versus staying home and trying to be Jimi Hendrix on Guitar Hero. Or you might pick a guitarist more recent than Jimi!
Know what the audience members have in common. Use it when writing jokes oriented around those shared elements, which are more likely to hold the audience’s attention. Doing so is invariably a crowd-pleaser. For example, if you’re addressing teachers, you might make a humorous reference to students’ most bizarre homework excuses.
Situational and observational humor that’s tailored to its audience is often particularly effective.

Watch your favorite funny movie, television show, or comedian.
Read works by your favorite humorous writers.
Don’t hesitate to take cues from their delivery -- learn from what they do to make a joke successful. (But don’t plagiarize!)
Pay attention when you make people around you laugh. Note the things you do or say that make people laugh and how you do it.
If, for example, your friends can’t stop laughing when you humorously re-enact stressful situations or conversations, try to incorporate similar elements into your speech.

Targeting particular people or groups is not only inconsiderate, it can alienate members of your audience.
Avoid jokes that are made at the expense of one side or another in a contentious issue, like jokes about one side of a political or religious debate.
Don’t make jokes about experiences you don’t understand. A good general rule is to write what you know. So if you, for example, have a learning disability, you might make a joke about the difficulties of dealing with standardized tests. But if you don’t have a learning disability, don’t make jokes about those who do -- you don’t share their specific experience, so you may unintentionally be making jokes about sensitive, potentially even hurtful, issues. [13] X Research source
Also take the taste level of your audience into consideration when deciding if a joke is going to be offensive. If you’re giving a speech to a room of educated adults, you’ll probably want to avoid overly bawdy or sexual humor.

The more relevant your jokes are to the specific matter at hand, the more likely they are to be successful with and entertaining.

But don’t go to extremes of self-loathing, as that will have the opposite effect. The audience won’t know whether to laugh or what you’re trying to accomplish.

Remember just what information it is you need to convey and ensure that it’s clear.
Don't let the humor become distracting. Humor can be a great tool for enhancing the information you’re conveying, as long as it doesn’t become a larger focus than the informative content itself. [15] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source

Step 7 Edit and revise -- multiple times.

Give yourself enough writing time so that you can go through and revise multiple times.
The more attentive you are to the details, the more successful your speech is likely to be.

Delivering Your Speech

Read the entire speech aloud until you’re comfortable enough with the material that you don’t need to read directly from your script but can simply use it as a prompt when needed.

If you watch comedians and humorists closely, you’ll find that they tend to lead in to their jokes in a particular, deliberate way. Specifically, they’ll use a combination of slower speech, significant pauses, and punctuated emphasis. So when you’re leading up to a joke, cue your audience by slowing down your delivery, pausing slightly before delivering the punchline, and emphasizing key words within the punchline. [18] X Research source
Emphasize important words, but not to the point that it becomes distracting. Practice how you would naturally speak the lines, paying attention to specific places where your tone rises, falls, or becomes more expressive. Keep those inflections in your speech and play them up enough to be animated, but stop short of being continually exaggerated, which will likely distract the audience from the content of the speech itself.
Watch and listen to speeches you admire. Pay attention to how the speaker manipulates their tone and pacing to enhance the speech and try to apply those same techniques to your own speech.

It can be somewhat uncomfortable to watch or listen to yourself, but doing so will help improve your presentation enough to be worth the momentary discomfort.

Think of being somewhat theatrical, you want your gestures to be visible and distinct from a distance. Favor several broad gestures over a series of small ones. [20] X Research source

Allow yourself to feel nervous. Accept that you’re going to feel that way and decide not to worry about it.
The more confidently you act, the more confident you’ll eventually feel.
You have a chance to share your humor and ideas with an interested audience -- enjoy it!

Expert Q&A

↑ https://courses.lumenlearning.com/wm-publicspeaking/chapter/humor-in-public-speaking/
↑ http://www.drmichellemazur.com/2013/04/speech-topic.html
↑ http://www.write-out-loud.com/how-to-use-humor-effectively.html
↑ Patrick Muñoz. Voice & Speech Coach. Expert Interview. 12 November 2019.
↑ http://sixminutes.dlugan.com/speech-preparation-3-outline-examples/
↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/speeches/
↑ http://writetodone.com/how-to-write-funny/
↑ http://www.ragan.com/Main/Articles/How_to_add_humor_to_your_speechwithout_being_a_com_47538.aspx

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100+ Fun and Silly Persuasive Speech Topics Everyone Will Enjoy

Sometimes, the best way to captivate an audience is to keep things lighthearted. Silly persuasive speech topics bring humor into public speaking, helping you connect with your listeners and creating an enjoyable atmosphere. Whether you’re trying to persuade your friends that pineapple belongs on pizza or arguing for cats to be the official rulers of the internet, these quirky topics can turn any presentation into an entertaining experience.

Why Choose Silly Persuasive Speech Topics?

Let’s face it—serious topics can get a bit dull. Silly persuasive speech topics not only entertain but also challenge you to think creatively and craft engaging arguments. They add humor, making your speech more relatable, memorable, and fun for everyone. Imagine convincing people why dogs should wear shoes or arguing why breakfast cereal tastes better at night—it’s impossible not to grab attention with such ideas!

Benefits of Silly Topics in Public Speaking

Choosing a silly topic can transform an ordinary speech into something extraordinary. By incorporating humor and absurdity, you create a unique experience for your audience. Here are some reasons why silly topics work so well:

They Make You Relatable : Humor bridges the gap between you and your audience. Choosing a funny or silly topic shows your playful side, helping listeners feel connected to you.

They’re Memorable : Nobody remembers a dull lecture, but they’ll always recall a speech about why aliens might prefer tacos over burgers. Quirky topics stick in people’s minds long after the speech ends.

They Encourage Creativity : Silly topics push you to think outside the box. Instead of relying solely on facts, you get to showcase creativity and wit, making even absurd arguments sound convincing.

20 Fun and Silly Persuasive Speech Topics Everyone Will Enjoy

Should dogs wear sunglasses in the summer?
Is cereal better as a midnight snack?
Should pizza toppings include chocolate chips?
Why should we have three-day weekends every week?
Are aliens just humans from the future?
Should cats be allowed to vote?
Is it okay to eat dessert before dinner?
Why all movies should have blooper reels at the end.
Should coffee be free for everyone?
Why do we need a “National Nap Day” holiday?
Should unicorns be our official national animal?
Are pancakes superior to waffles?
Should superheroes get paid for their work?
Why we need vending machines for socks.
Should all schools have pet mascots?
Why do we need a “Pajama Day” at work?
Are robots better drivers than humans?
Should all doors be automatic?
Why weekends should be longer than weekdays.
Should people be allowed to wear slippers everywhere?

@thatrelatablestudent What are your thoughts on these topics?🤔 #essaytopics #essay #studytok #study ♬ original sound - thatrelatablestudent

20 Silly Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

Should homework come with snack breaks?
Are pop quizzes just teacher pranks?
Should school cafeterias serve only desserts?
Why pencils should come with built-in erasers on both ends.
Should students be allowed to wear pajamas to school?
Is recess more important than math class?
Should we have a “Bring Your Pet to School” day?
Why group projects should be replaced by solo work.
Should video games be a school subject?
Why every school day should start at 10 AM.
Are textbooks outdated and should be replaced with comics?
Should students get extra credit for telling jokes in class?
Why every classroom needs a bean bag chair.
Are field trips better than regular classes?
Should students have a say in what teachers wear?
Is lunch the most important part of the school day?
Should we have snack breaks every 30 minutes?
Why gym class should be optional.
Are lockers too small for modern student needs?
Should students be allowed to bring pets for show-and-tell?

20 Lighthearted Speech Topics for Parties and Gatherings

Should cake always be eaten with ice cream?
Is karaoke the best party game?
Should every party have a chocolate fountain?
Why pineapple on pizza is the ultimate icebreaker debate.
Are surprise parties overrated?
Should board games be mandatory at every gathering?
Why balloons make every event better.
Is a pool party better than a dance party?
Should every party have a themed dress code?
Are cupcakes superior to cakes for celebrations?
Why chips and dip are the ultimate party snacks.
Should sparklers be allowed indoors?
Are piñatas the most fun party activity?
Should every party have a photo booth?
Why party favors are a must-have.
Are house parties better than club parties?
Should pets be invited to parties?
Why birthday parties should include treasure hunts.
Is the music playlist more important than the food?
Should every party end with a group selfie?

20 Silly Persuasive Speech Topics for Kids

Should kids have ice cream for breakfast every day?
Is it okay to wear mismatched socks?
Why cookies are better than vegetables.
Should kids be in charge of bedtime rules?
Is recess better than lunch?
Why every kid needs a treehouse.
Should superheroes be allowed to go to school?
Are stuffed animals better friends than real ones?
Why cartoons should be on TV all day.
Should candy be considered a food group?
Why kids are smarter than adults.
Are sleepovers the best weekend activity?
Should kids get paid for doing chores?
Why every home should have a trampoline.
Are board games more fun than video games?
Should pets be allowed in classrooms?
Why chocolate milk is better than juice.
Should homework be banned forever?
Are superheroes better than princesses?
Should kids design their own school uniforms?

20 Hilarious Speech Topics for Kids

20 quirky persuasive topics for adults.

Should coffee breaks be mandatory at work?
Why weekends should last three days.
Are naps the secret to productivity?
Should we replace all chairs with bean bags?
Is breakfast food better for dinner?
Why socks should come in threes instead of pairs.
Should there be a “National Donut Day” every month?
Are books better than movies?
Should adults be allowed to trick-or-treat?
Is karaoke the best stress-relief activity?
Why every workplace needs a nap room.
Should flip-flops be considered formal footwear?
Are coffee mugs better than travel cups?
Should pets be allowed in offices?
Why bubble baths are better than showers.
Is glitter the most underrated office supply?
Should we have an official “No-Email Day” at work?
Are cats better office mascots than dogs?
Why pizza Fridays should be a workplace tradition.
Should adults get summer vacations too?

20 Outrageous Topics for Family Debates

Should pancakes or waffles rule breakfast?
Why dogs are better family pets than cats.
Should family movie nights include only animated films?
Is popcorn the best movie snack?
Should everyone have their own TV remote?
Are holidays better with matching outfits?
Why board games should replace video games during family nights.
Should family vacations include a road trip every year?
Why dessert should be eaten before dinner.
Should everyone in the family get their own bathroom?
Are weekend mornings meant for pancakes?
Should there be a family “no phone” day every month?
Is pizza better than tacos for family dinner?
Should family photos always be silly?
Are water balloon fights the best summer activity?
Should parents always lose in video games?
Is camping better than staying in hotels?
Why matching socks should be banned in the house.
Are cats secretly plotting to take over family life?
Should family game night include outdoor activities?

How to Write a Persuasive Speech

Writing a persuasive speech, even for silly topics, requires a bit of planning. Start with a hook to grab attention, then clearly state your argument. Use humor, personal anecdotes, and relatable examples to make your point. Keep your structure simple: introduction, main points, and a memorable conclusion. Practice delivery to ensure your speech comes across naturally and confidently.

Need more tips? Check out Top 10 Persuasive Speech Examples for inspiration and techniques!

Tips for Presenting Silly Persuasive Speech Topics

Presenting silly persuasive speech topics requires more than just choosing an outrageous idea. The way you deliver your speech can make or break its impact. Here’s how to ensure your presentation hits all the right notes:

Use Humor Strategically

Humor is your best friend when tackling silly topics, but it needs to be well-placed. Don’t rely solely on the absurdity of your topic to carry your speech—enhance it with witty remarks, funny stories, and a touch of sarcasm. Keep it natural and conversational to make your audience laugh while staying engaged.

Engage the Audience

Interaction is the key to keeping your audience entertained. Ask them questions, involve them in quick polls, or even crack a joke they can relate to. For instance, “Raise your hand if you think pineapple on pizza is a crime!” Engaging your listeners makes the experience more enjoyable and memorable.

Be Confident

Even the silliest topics require confidence to sell your point. If you hesitate or seem unsure, it can make the absurdity of your argument fall flat. Own your topic, maintain strong body language, and deliver your speech with a sense of conviction—this will captivate your audience and make your argument more persuasive.

Why Silly Topics Are Worth It

Silly persuasive speech topics are a great way to make people laugh while allowing you to grow as a speaker and connect with your audience in meaningful ways. These topics encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, think creatively, and approach arguments from fresh perspectives. They also leave a lasting impression on your listeners.

Arguing why breakfast for dinner should be a daily tradition or explaining why giraffes are underrated athletes is more than just entertaining. It builds rapport, highlights your originality, and makes public speaking an enjoyable experience. People remember how you make them feel, and a lighthearted topic delivered with confidence ensures they won’t forget you.

Take the plunge, choose a fun and quirky topic, and enjoy the laughter and engagement it brings. A silly topic might be exactly what you need to take your public speaking to the next level.

Great funny speeches

5 keys to writing & delivering humorous speeches.

By: Susan Dugdale | Last modified: 01-04-2023

Many of us long to give a great funny speech.

We imagine ourselves being oh, so witty. In our minds, we tell jokes effortlessly. We see our audience beam appreciatively, and hear them roar and snort with laughter in the places they're meant to. Of course the applause as we finish triumphantly is thunderous.

Sadly though, we really don't know how, or where to start to write, or deliver one.

If that's you, this is your page!

Image: vintage jester. Text: How to find the right kind of funny for speeches.

5 keys to writing & delivering great funny speeches

1. understanding the purpose of your speech.

Is the primary goal of your speech to be funny or is it to impart knowledge with humor?

Unless you are a stand-up comedian, the main purpose of your speech is probably to give your message in an entertaining way, which will include humor.

This means that you will use humor as a tool to help you communicate, to carry your message to the audience. It is not the main focus of your speech but an enjoyable addition.

The more integrated the humor is with your speech subject, the more effective it will be.

Getting clear on your primary goal will help you decide how you plan, write and deliver your speech.

2. Understanding humor

Humor comes in many shapes and sizes from small smirks to full blown belly laughs. To use it effectively it helps to have an understanding of its varieties. This enables you to choose what will suit your audience, your speech topic, and the occasion.

Types of verbal humor and word play

Visit my page types of verbal humor and word play for definitions and examples of puns, irony, hyperbole, innuendo, spoonerisms and more. Much more!

Verbal humor is deliciously silly stuff. Like this wonderful double malapropism that's kept me chortling for umpteen years. It was in a student's essay. (Thank you Tina.)

"The statue of Liberace and the Star Strangled Banger"

Sometimes marking is glorious!

Physical humor

My page on physical humor will give you an introduction to using gesture or body language as an aid to laughter.

You'll find explanations and exercises to help you explore using your body to express yourself.

Finding the confidence to play with physical humor, to allow yourself to experiment, will reward you enormously. Because, as I say in the introduction to the page:

"Physical humor has an immediacy that by passes language completely and goes straight to the funny center. It transcends age groups, gender and culture."

It's the language everybody understands.

Verbal and physical humor are the core elements you'll bring together when crafting your speech.

3. Integrating humor

Image: label. Text: How to use humor effectively

What works, what doesn't, and why?

We know adding humor to our presentations makes them more effective and more memorable but sometimes the more we try, the worse it gets. The jokes fall excruciatingly flat.

You can avoid that pain by reading how to use humor effectively .

Those great funny speeches you admire bring more than a knowledge of the basic "ha-ha, hee-hee" building blocks together.

4. Storytelling & characterization

Image: label. Text: How to use humorous stories in speeches

How to use humorous stories or anecdotes in speeches. There's three pages to browse. All of them will deepen your understanding.

- story telling in speeches - choosing & shaping a story. What story fits your speech purpose, your audience and your content?

- story telling set-ups Having a great funny story to tell is good. Having a great introduction or set-up to it, is even better. Find out how do that well.

- characterization techniques enable you to become the characters in your story. Your stories are so much richer for it.

5. Rehearsal/practice = great funny speeches

Image: label. Text: Practice, practice, and then do it some more.

Having prepared your speech, you're ready for rehearsal.

Practice, and then more practice, will hone and refine your speech. You'll find out what works, what doesn't, where you need to edit and why.

Truly, I'm not exaggerating when I say that practice can make all the difference between being splendiferously successful and disappointment.

Read my story about giving a humorous speech . That ought to convince you! This was a lesson straight from the "should-have-known-better department".

The tips you need for rehearsing are below.

how to rehearse - a step by step guide to get the best out of the time you spend practicing.
vocal variety - how to use your voice effectively This page also has ongoing links information and exercises for using pauses, varying the rate of speech, how to speak clearly and more - all of which are needed for humor.

Other resources for preparing great funny speeches

* Videoed speeches from Toastmaster's Humorous Speaking Contests Among other things like content, structure, choice of vocabulary, use of voice, they're good for seeing how gesture and movement helps tell the story.

(What I find really interesting about these is how personal preference plays into which I think are great funny speeches, and which I don't. I can see and hear competency and confidence. That's a base level requirement. However, beyond that individual sensibilities take over. ☺)

* Tony Audrieth's The Art of Using Humor in Public Speaking . This is an in-depth exploration of the aspects that combine to successfully deliver a funny speech. You'll find examples of humor types, notes of delivery and practice as well as suggested sources for quotes and jokes. I think it's superb - an immensely valuable resource.

* A useful collection of fun speech topics - good for starters if you're stuck.

Return to top of great funny speeches

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How to Write a Funny Speech That Will Have Your Audience Rolling in Laughter

Delivering a funny speech is a daunting task, and doing it well can seem like a near-impossible feat. But with the right tools and techniques, anyone can successfully craft and deliver a humorous speech that will leave your audience in stitches. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a funny speech that will captivate your listeners and have them rolling in laughter.

Understanding the Basics of Humor

Humor can be a powerful tool for engaging audiences and connecting with listeners. However, successfully integrating humor into your speech requires a thorough understanding of the basics of humor. Here are a few tips to help you master the art of making people laugh:

The Importance of Timing

Timing is everything in humor. The moment you choose to deliver a joke or humorous anecdote can make or break its impact. A joke delivered too soon can fall flat, while one that comes too late may miss the mark. As a general rule, it is best to deliver your punchline just after the set-up, to allow time for the audience to process the joke and react accordingly. Remember, timing is key.

It's important to also consider the timing of the event or occasion. For example, a joke that may be appropriate for a casual gathering with friends may not be appropriate for a professional setting. Understanding the context of the situation is just as important as the timing of the joke itself.

Different Types of Humor

There are many types of humor, ranging from puns and wordplay to satire and irony. The type of humor you choose to use in your speech should reflect your personal style and resonate with your audience. Take the time to experiment with different forms of humor to find the style that works best for you.

One popular form of humor is self-deprecation, where you make fun of yourself in a lighthearted way. This can help to make you more relatable to your audience and show that you don't take yourself too seriously.

Another type of humor is observational humor, where you make humorous observations about everyday situations. This type of humor can be particularly effective as it allows your audience to see the humor in their own lives.

Knowing Your Audience

Humor is subjective, and what one audience finds funny may fall flat with another group. It is important to know your audience and tailor your humor to their tastes and preferences. Consider factors such as age, gender, profession, and cultural background, and adjust your humor accordingly to ensure maximum impact.

For example, if you are speaking to a group of doctors, you may want to use medical humor that they can relate to. Similarly, if you are speaking to a group of college students, you may want to use pop culture references that they are familiar with.

Remember, the goal of humor is to connect with your audience and make them feel comfortable. By understanding the basics of humor, experimenting with different types of humor, and knowing your audience, you can use humor to enhance your speeches and presentations.

Crafting Your Speech Content

The key to writing a funny speech is to strike a balance between humor and substance. Here are a few tips to help you create content that is both entertaining and informative:

Finding Inspiration for Jokes

Inspiration for humor can come from many sources, including personal experiences, pop culture, current events, and even cliches and stereotypes. Take the time to brainstorm ideas and experiment with different forms of humor to find what works best for you.

Incorporating Personal Anecdotes

Personal anecdotes can be a powerful tool for connecting with audiences and adding authenticity to your speech. Consider weaving humorous stories from your own life into your speech to add a personal touch and make your jokes more relatable.

Balancing Humor with Substance

While humor is important, it is equally important to provide substance and value to your audience. Balance your humor with informative content and practical advice to ensure your message resonates with your listeners.

Developing Your Speech Structure

The structure of your speech plays a crucial role in its success. Here are a few tips to help you craft a strong speech structure:

Opening with a Strong Hook

Your opening is your chance to grab your audience's attention and set the tone for the rest of your speech. Consider using a humorous anecdote or joke to start your speech on a high note and engage your audience from the get-go.

Building Momentum with Your Jokes

As you move through your speech, build momentum by gradually increasing the frequency and impact of your jokes. By structuring your speech in this way, you can create a sense of excitement and anticipation among your listeners, culminating in a stronger, more memorable finish.

Ending on a High Note

Your closing is your chance to leave a lasting impression on your audience. Consider ending your speech with a humorous anecdote or joke that reinforces your message and leaves a lasting impression on your listeners.

Mastering Your Delivery

The way you deliver your speech can make a big difference in its impact. Here are a few tips to help you master your delivery:

Practicing Your Timing

Timing is everything in humor, so it is important to practice your delivery to ensure your jokes land at the right moment. Take the time to rehearse your speech to ensure your timing is on point and your delivery is polished.

Using Body Language and Facial Expressions

Body language and facial expressions can be powerful tools for conveying humor and emotion in your speech. Consider incorporating subtle gestures and expressions into your delivery to enhance your jokes and connect with your audience.

Modulating Your Voice for Maximum Impact

The way you modulate your voice can have a big impact on the impact of your speech. Varying your pitch, tone, and volume can help you emphasize key points and add impact to your jokes. Practice varying your voice to add depth and dimension to your speech.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can craft a funny and engaging speech that will have your audience rolling in laughter. Remember to stay true to your personal style and tailor your humor to your audience, and you'll be sure to deliver a speech that leaves a lasting impact.

ChatGPT Prompt for Writing a Funny Speech

Chatgpt prompt.

Compose a humorous address that will entertain and amuse the audience.

[ADD ADDITIONAL CONTEXT. CAN USE BULLET POINTS.]

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6 Ways to Guarantee Laughs During Your Next Speech

We’ve all been there. The spotlight is on you, you’ve set up the perfect joke, you nail the punchline, and… crickets .

It’s never fun to feel like your humor isn’t reading as funny to the audience. That’s why I’m here to teach you my six greatest tips and tricks on how to make a speech funny, or your (metaphorical) money back.

See Related: Best MC Jokes For A Conference

#1: Tell Relatable Stories

If there’s one thing we learned from Seinfeld , it’s that the everyday is funny . Use this to your advantage in your speech!

Audiences laugh when they see their own experience reflected onstage. Add relatable humor to your speech with these ideas:

Turn Frustration Into Comedy

What got on your nerves this morning? It was something. I know it was. You know it was. We all know it was.

And you know what? I bet it was funny and would be great for your master of ceremonies speech .

Let me guess…

Did your family member turn on a bright light while you were still asleep? Speech material.

Did one of your friends cut you off on the way to work, causing your chai latte to spill on your brand-new pants? Speech material.

Were you (yet again) not Caller #5 and didn’t win your radio station’s giveaway for tickets to John Mayer’s Sob Rock Tour? (I’m terribly sorry – but speech material.)

These sorts of situations may get on your nerves in the moment, but I promise that, when transformed into a joke told with the right spirit, they will be funny and make the audience laugh.

The main idea when writing your funny speech is to shift your own perspective from frustrated to amused.

#2: Use Your Physicality to Communicate

Humor isn’t just about the words you say. A major part of making a good joke and creating a funny speech is using your body language to tell the story.

What do I mean? Well , think about your favorite comedians .

From Ali Wong to John Mulaney, comedians each have their own way of using their bodies to add humor to the funny stories they tell. It’s like a secret, other skill that is so ingrained in their performances, you may not notice it at first.

Every great comic uses gestures and physicality to deliver their material and engage audiences.

Act as characters

In your speech, maybe you’re telling a funny anecdote about a parent-teacher conference you had with your son’s kindergarten teacher. Instead of just speaking about the event, make people laugh by playing it out for the audience!

Go ahead, embody the teacher and her proper, stiff posture. Show guests how utterly ridiculous it looked when you sat down in a tiny chair made to fit a five year-old because the teacher didn’t have an adult-sized chair for you to use.

I can hear the laughter already!

No need to overdo it

Remember, your shifts in body language don’t need to be hyperbolic. During speeches, even the slightest, most intentional changes will go a long way in helping the audience understand your story audibly and visually.

#3: Deliver Originality

Humorous speeches are based in truth . The best way to ground your speeches in truth is to use your own material!

This may seem simple, but it cannot be overstated: if you’ve heard the joke before, I promise your audience has too.

Personalize Your Funny Speech to the Event

It can be tough to create a humorous message that will pull lots of laughter out of your audience! But with practice, I promise you’ll become a pro – just like a regular ol’ event emcee .

The best way to stay funny, original, and on-task is to remember the primary goal of the event :

What is the goal of the event?

Is it to help new students feel comfortable at a large university? To raise money for a local grassroots nonprofit?

Once you understand what the client hopes to achieve through these events (and, therefore, your speeches), you can begin adding humor that focuses on those particular subjects.

Here’s an example :

If I’m making a humorous speech with the goal of exciting the crowd before a 5K Fun Run begins, I might make a self-deprecating joke about the utter irony of putting the words “fun” and “run” next to each other – lighthearted, relatable for many, and sure to ease some runners’ nerves when they hear it.

Got Writer’s Block?

It happens to the best of us!

Here are some writing prompts to get your creativity, word play, and humor flowing:

Write about something that made you laugh out loud recently.
Write about the silliest message you’ve ever received over phone, text, or email.
Write about the most memorable slip-up you’ve ever made in public.
Write about a few people who make you laugh – what about them is so funny to you?
If you are the punch line, write the joke.

Bonus: What Does An Event Host Do?

#4: Structure Your Jokes

Look, not everything can be funny to everyone (and if you discover the magical meme that is the exception to that rule, please send it to me ASAP).

However, you can do yourself a favor by structuring your comedy with intentionality.

Not Sure How to Structure Your Jokes?

Here are the main categories into which most jokes fall:

We touched on the main points of anecdotal jokes at the beginning – they just involve telling a funny story from your own life!

An incident while baking holiday cookies ? A mix-up that surprised you while picking your child up from school? The sound of a squeaking chair at a very inopportune moment?

As the speaker, your humorous stories are all fair game!

You guessed it – one-liners are jokes told in just one sentence. Deliver one-liners smartly and you will have the room in stitches.

Observational

I mentioned Seinfeld earlier – that show is a classic example of observational humor! Observational jokes comment on the absurdity of everyday experiences and are great to add to your speeches.

A recent example of observational humor in television would be Abbott Elementary . Each episode tells a story about the everyday joys and frustrations that can come with working at a public elementary school in Philadelphia – and finds a way to create humor and heart in every moment.

Topical humor pokes fun at current events, be it the news, celebrity culture, or the latest Tik Tok trend. A dash of topical humor, when used appropriately, can grab your audience’s attention and be an asset to your funny speech.

However, you must stay aware of the client’s needs. If they prefer that politics and pop culture stay out of your presentation for fear of rubbing an audience member the wrong way, you must respect this. In fact, it can be safer to stay away from topical humor unless you know you have the right audience for it.

Self-Deprecating

Self-deprecating jokes are all about finding humor in your own flaws. It’s great to be able to laugh at yourself, but be careful not to use so much self-deprecating humor that it makes your audience feel uncomfortable.

#5: Tone Is Your Friend

In the same vein as physicality, your voice is an incredibly effective tool for making folks laugh.

What Do I Mean?

Say you’re telling an anecdotal joke about your niece’s sixth birthday party. Sure, you could use your everyday intonation to “play” the various roles at the party. But…

Wouldn’t it be funnier to give each character a distinct intonation?

Your six year-old niece’s high-pitched, bell-like voice. Your brother’s gruff, Midwestern tone. The angelic, sing-song-y sound of the actor playing a Disney princess to entertain the kids.

Each character in the story is another opportunity for creativity, and for laughs.

Let’s Take a Tip from Actors

Even when you’re not playing a character other than yourself, your voice is still an incredibly useful instrument. Why?

Your voice is the audience’s guide.

Softness versus loudness. Lightning-quick speech versus indulgent slowness. Serious versus playful.

Whenever you speak, you make a million little choices . Be intentional about those, because your audience is (quite literally) taking your cue!

Convey Confidence

Delivery is everything. If a speaker or corporate emcee can deliver your presentation with a strong sense of confidence, the audience will feel safe to let loose and laugh. But this takes practice!

I feel disappointed when a speaker exudes insecurity. Try your best to put yourself in the audience’s shoes – wouldn’t you prefer to watch someone with great command of the room and confidence in their presentation?

I know I would!

#6: Bring People Together

Your audience is full of different people – many of whom you don’t know, and who will find different things humorous. Here are some tips for making everyone feel comfortable and ready to laugh:

Speak to Universal Experiences

It is important to do your absolute best not to ostracize anyone in the audience. Your client has hired you to help everyone feel comfortable. So, what is the best way to go about doing this in a diverse society?

When writing your speech, focus on humor that is a testament to the human experience , so that most people will relate to it. Adults, kids, everyone!

I don’t mean to be vague – the opposite, in fact. Specificity is funny.

Here are some examples:

There are certain human experiences with which every single person can identify:

Talk about a time when you felt embarrassed as a teenager .
Make a joke about an insecurity you had growing up, and still have to this day.
Surprise the audience with a weird dream you had recently.
Keep guests laughing with anecdotes about lessons you’ve learned the hard way.

Balance Listening and Speaking

Okay, okay, I know you’re giving a speech – that sort of implies that you’re talking. But listening is an equally important factor in your delivery of a hilarious speech.

It can be scary, but practice including pauses in your speech. Depending on the joke, the audience may need a few seconds to digest it before they begin laughing. Sometimes, your silence is the most entertaining part – if allowed, the audience will often fill that silence with laughter.

And, Scene!

As I’ve said before, humor is subjective – that will always be the case.

If you haven’t been getting the laughs you’ve hoped for, please talk kindly to yourself. Creating a humorous speech that appeals to many people takes lots of practice – you will get there!

Keep Reading: How To Host A Networking Event

Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings , special events , gala celebrations , and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com . For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest , LinkedIn , and YouTube .

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Funny Speech Topics to Make Your Audience Laugh

Who among us hasn’t been caught off-guard during a speech, struggling to think of something to say, grasping desperately for words to fill the silence?

Whether it’s during a school presentation, a sales pitch, or a TED talk , great public speaking relies on having interesting materials to work with — and that often involves humor. After all, nothing captures people’s attention or puts them at ease like a well-crafted joke!

Today, we’re going to help you get your creative juices flowing and make sure there’s never a dull moment in any of your speeches.

We’ve compiled some of the funniest speech topics to make your audience laugh, starting from the harmless to the outrageous. Whether you’re looking for something light and unassuming or a joke guaranteed to get a chuckle, this list has it all!

So without further ado, let’s dive right in and make sure your next talking points are both memorable and hilarious.

Quick Answer to Key Question

Some funny speech topics could include humorous takes on current events, jokes about popular celebrities, lighthearted observations, and satirical examples of everyday scenarios. The possibilities for humorous content are truly endless – use your imagination to come up with something unique!

What is a Funny Speech?

A funny speech is a lighthearted presentation that focuses on making the audience laugh. It can be delivered as either an informative, persuasive, or entertaining talk, with humorous remarks and jokes to recognize the comic elements in life.

To this end, it often features playful humor, irony, exaggeration, and even farce , but within an appropriate context. As such, funny speeches can help break up tension and serve as a refreshing break from more serious topics .

However, there are drawbacks to using humor in public speaking. First of all, being funny can be difficult, so speakers must cultivate their natural wit and observe trends and topics that may lead to amusing content.

Additionally, though an audience may seem receptive to lightheartedness upfront, it could become easily offended if jokes cross lines of decency. As such, a speaker must judge the energy of the room and deliver material that will evoke laughter without overwhelming their listeners’ sense of propriety.

Ultimately, presenting a funny speech requires finesse and skill. But when done successfully, it can create lasting memories for both speaker and audience alike. With these considerations in mind, let us now transition into the next section which explores ideas for humorous speech topics.

Ideas for Humorous Speech Topics

Humorous speech topics can be great ice breakers at an event or just an entertaining way to pass the time. Whether you are giving a speech in front of your peers or random strangers, you will want to come up with material that is witty, entertaining, and guaranteed to get a laugh or two. Here are some ideas for humorous topics to consider: 1. Discuss why cats are smarter than dogs 2. Compare life before and after cell phones3. Debate whether cake or ice cream is better 4. Talk about the pros and cons of going to bed late versus getting up early 5. Examine the ridiculousness of certain trends 6. Discuss why people overreact when a mistake is made 7. Share your thoughts about extreme diets 8. Laugh about the difficulty of parallel parking 9. Analyze why some people rebel against instructions 10. Debate which reality TV show is the most absurd No matter which topic you choose to discuss, make sure to focus on enjoying yourself and showcasing your humorous side.

While it’s important to focus on making others laugh, it is also essential that you have fun along with them, as this will help create a more authentic and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone in attendance. Now that you have some ideas for humorous speech topics, let’s move on to discussing events.

Talking About Events

Talking about events often brings out the most laughter in an audience.

Whether it’s discussing a current hot button issue or rehashing a comical blunder that happened to a friend, addressing funny topics related to events can be endlessly entertaining.

Though there are some topics that might be deemed too sensitive to address, such as politics or religious issues , many current and past events offer plenty of moments that make for interesting storytelling opportunities.

For example, humorous angles on the latest celebrity news or an analysis behind why sports teams make questionable decisions can be met with laughter and applause.

Similarly, gossiping about relationships or peculiar situations among friends provides plenty of material for comedic discourse. As long as a speaker is able to keep their dialogue respectful, making light of recent happenings often serves as great source material for humor.

That being said, even if the topic being addressed is objectively lighthearted, being mindful of how sensitive it may come off to some members of the audience is important.

When necessary, debaters should employ tact when approaching certain subjects and always strive to treat any individuals involved with respect in their presentations.

Kept within healthy limits, talking about events can be quite amusing and engaging – it can bring out not only laughter but positive conversations between family, friends and participants alike.

Leading into the next section now: Personal topics also provide an abundance of funny speech topics that will surely strike a chord with any group.

Personal Topics

When it comes to comedy, the personal touch can make all the difference. Taking your speech topic from something close to home such as family, work or hobbies can often result in an entertaining and relatable topic.

Whether you choose to do a light-hearted take on a serious issue or bravely share some embarrassing stories, there’s sure to be something funny within your own experience.

For instance, exploring the “family dynamic” is often a great place to start. Even in the tightest of families, the occasional funny moment can emerge. Tell a story about an occasion where everyone was struggling to act their best and you had a laugh at their expense.

Or explore how certain family members are always found in the center of attention (even if they don’t intend to be). If done in good taste and with respect, poking fun at your family can result in some sincere laughs from both yourself and your audience.

These topics provide an opportunity for self-deprecating humor and bring a unique perspective on life that others may find both humorous and intriguing.

Personal insights into everyday struggles, misunderstandings or awkward moments can lead to topics that are surprisingly relatable. You will find that what you feel is ordinary can actually be extraordinary in someone else’s eyes.

Keep in mind, though, that when taking this approach, it is important to never offend anyone with your comments or jokes. Embrace embarrassment but never belittle any individuals or groups who are part of your stories or experiences

By leaning into those funny moments – whether they involve yourself or others – they can become powerful tools that make your speech memorable and enjoyable. Now let’s move onto telling funny stories – which also has its own unique set of advantages!

Personal topics can make comedy writing unique and relatable. Telling stories involving family and funny moments can provide entertainment while being respectful. Touching on ordinary struggles and awkward situations can lead to humor while still avoiding offending anyone directly. Humorously embracing embarrassment will help make speeches memorable.

Telling Funny Stories

Telling funny stories is an effective way to make your audience laugh, as stories are usually much more relatable than jokes.

People of all ages will often enjoy hearing a clever anecdote that they can relate to or that paints a vivid picture in their mind. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when telling a funny story as part of your speech.

First, it is important to remember that time is limited. Try to select anecdotes that have a clear beginning, middle, and end that are not too long-winded or complicated. Make sure the story you choose conveys your point while making it entertaining.

One debate between comedians and public speakers is whether stories should be made up or true. On the one hand, factual stories can be full of fascinating nuances and details and may appeal to some audiences.

True stories allow you to fully describe an experience for the audience’s enjoyment or gain a better understanding of the person telling it.

On the other hand, comedic opinions often say that made-up stories can be even funnier than real events if they present a creative spin on life. Whichever route you choose, always try to turn your story into a humble brag!

No matter which type of story you tell, ensure that it fits in with your overall message, as this helps tie it together for the listener. With any luck your humor will land with the crowd and keep them engaged until you reach the conclusion.

To help prepare for delivering such an important section of your presentation, let’s move on to looking at some useful tips for Writing and Delivering a Funny Speech.

Tips for Writing and Delivering a Funny Speech

Writing and delivering a funny speech can be a rewarding experience, especially if you can make your audience roar with laughter. However, crafting an effective comedic monologue takes skill, confidence and sometimes a bit of trial and error. To help you get started, here are some tips for writing and delivering a funny speech: 1. Understand Your Audience – Study your audience to determine what kind of humor they will respond to. For example, family-friendly jokes will play better at a dinner table than a corporate conference room. Adjust your standards accordingly to ensure the best outcome. 2. Know What Not to Do – A true professional comedian knows what not to say or do during their performance. Avoid vulgar language, off-color jokes and controversial topics that may offend certain members of your audience. Also, it’s important to know how far is too far when making fun of yourself or colleagues. 3. Write Your Speech First – Write out the speech first before even attempting to deliver it in front of others. This will give you more control over the timing and pacing of key punch lines for optimum effect¹. It also eliminates any confusion about the order you want to deliver your jokes in front of an audience. 4. Rehearse – Even if you have written the speech beforehand, practice multiple times until you are comfortable delivering it in public or private settings. Know which visual aids (if any) will engage your audience during key points in the speech. 5. Have Fun – When delivering a funny speech, don’t take yourself too seriously! Relax, have fun and let your personality shine through while you tell your story or jokes³. Then enjoy the applause after each punch line lands! Ultimately, writing and delivering a funny speech requires knowledge, skill and dedication—but done right, it can be very rewarding! Now let’s move on to addressing how we can use humor appropriately in our speeches…

Use Humor Appropriately

When giving a speech, it is important to use humor appropriately. Too much humor can actually dilute the impact of an otherwise persuasive message.

Adding bits of humor throughout the presentation will keep an audience engaged and help make your points easier to remember. But if you attempt too many jokes during your speech, it can be distracting for listeners and actually work against your intended message.

Adopting a humorous persona or mocking people who disagree with you can be dangerous because members of your audience may take offense. It is recommended to base humor on personal experiences or stories that you know your audience can relate to in order to ensure the best response.

Likewise, comedian Jerry Seinfeld suggests avoiding overt political material in your speech–which should come as no surprise considering how polarizing politics has become these days.

Overall, it is important to strike the right balance when adding humor to a speech. Humor should be used sparingly and should stay away from controversial topics unless done skillfully; otherwise, it can backfire instead of unifying your audience or making a strong point. With this in mind, let’s look at some examples of humorous speech topics next.

Examples of Humorous Speech Topics

When it comes to funny speeches, it’s important to find a topic that resonates with your audience. If you can make an audience laugh, the speech will be remembered for years to come. While humor may differ from culture to culture, there are some topics that remain universally funny. Here are a few examples: • The Pros and Cons of Dating an Alien • How to Create an App That Makes Doing Laundry Easier • A Practical Guide To Quitting Your Job and Becoming an Astronaut • Surviving a Zombie Invasion Without Looking Too Silly • How To Be The Life Of Any Party By Creating Inventive Dances • A Tour Of Local Haunted Locations These humorous speech topics could also be used as the basis for some light-hearted debate, offering the opportunity to explore both sides of a comedic argument. Ultimately, with each topic, the possibilities and potentials of making a crowd laugh are endless!

It is clear from looking at the speech topics discussed in this article that humor can be found everywhere and used in a variety of forms. A funny speech does not have to contain jokes or stand up comedy, but can simply use wit, wordplay and well-timed delivery to draw attention and elicit laughter from an audience.

When preparing a funny speech, it is important to consider the topic carefully and ensure that it is appropriate for the context. Some people may find certain topics offensive or inappropriate depending on their preferences, so these should be avoided when giving a humorous speech.

The topics presented in this article cover a wide range of perspectives and provide ample opportunity for crafting an entertaining and memorable speech. If crafting your own material is not something you feel comfortable with, there are many sources available on the internet which provide ready-made humor suitable for speeches.

Ultimately, whatever speech topic you choose, the most important thing is that it resonates with your audience and makes them laugh!

Responses to Frequently Asked Questions with Detailed Explanations

What are some tips for delivering a funny speech.

1. Start by rehearsing your speech – make sure you know it word for word and practice delivering it with the right tone of voice and body language . Rehearsing will also help you memorize what to say if you get nervous during the performance. 2. Keep your audience in mind when choosing your topic. Make jokes and references that your audience will appreciate and understand – don’t try too hard to be funny if others won’t get the joke. 3. Come up with creative ways to capture your audience’s attention from the start – tell stories, anecdotes, or jokes that pique their interest and connect to your overall message. 4. Stay away from crude humour or off-color remarks if they aren’t appropriate for the situation. Make sure whatever jokes you make are lighthearted and not offensive or hurtful to anyone in the room. 5. Have fun! If you come across as too serious or uptight, no one will laugh at your jokes. Don’t be afraid to exaggerate or bring enthusiasm when delivering your speech – it will make it much more entertaining.

What topics are suitable for a funny speech?

Some excellent topics for a funny speech include: 1. Inexplicable Mishaps – Stories about your funniest mistakes, blunders, and bumbles! 2. Unusual Occupations – Share the details of your weirdest job or wackiest hobby. 3. Unforeseen Consequences – Talk about decisions you regret and the hilarious results that followed. 4. Random Animal Facts – Insert some hilarious animal trivia from around the world into your speech. 5. Dumb Criminals – Discuss the most foolish criminals and their failed attempts at avoiding justice. 6. Childhood Memories – Recount humorous moments from your childhood to brighten the mood of your audience. 7. Bad Jokes – Use classic puns, tongue-twisters, and one-liners to get the crowd laughing. 8. Comical Slogans – Talk about corporate catchphrases that are humorous in unintended ways! 9. Upcycled Language – Create new words or tweak old ones to give them a funny spin and make people chuckle! 10. Cultural Commentaries – Discuss deficiencies and absurdities in popular culture that can spark a good laugh from your listeners!

What types of funny speeches would be suitable for different audiences?

When determining which type of funny speech would be suitable for different audiences, it’s important to consider several factors. For instance, the age, gender, interests, and background of the audience will all play a role in deciding on a topic.

For example, if your audience is mainly composed of young students or professionals in their 20s and 30s, you might want to focus on topics that are relevant to their experiences such as relationships, technology, popular culture, and current events. You could also make jokes about self-deprecating humour, sarcasm, and irony.

If the audience is made up of mostly seniors or retirees, you may want to focus on topics like nostalgia, family stories, and observations about retirement. You can use human interest stories and light-hearted anecdotes to make them laugh.

For college audiences with various backgrounds and interests, you’ll want to focus on topics such as sports rivalries, differences between generations or cultures , or even absurdist humour.

Organizing a funny speech around a common experience that everyone in the room can relate to will help ensure it resonates with the whole audience. Doing some research beforehand can provide lots of inspiration for appropriate funny speech topics that are sure to make your audience laugh!

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Funny speeches: how to use humor in public speaking.

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Humor can be hazardous to the health of public speakers. Most speakers want to be funny, but you’ve got to do humor well, or it falls flat and that’s worse than no humor at all. Here I provide a guide for avoiding the worst mistakes of traditional one-liners and cheap irony, replacing them instead with ironic and witty humor that works and wins audiences over to your side. And, if you insist on using one-liners, I show you how to ‘sell’ them successfully.

Traditional jokes with punch lines are the hardest to pull off

Let’s start with an example of a funny speech by Emily Levine.

Emily Levine is a self-proclaimed trickster and a very funny person. She’s Harvard-trained and still manages to be hilarious. Emily’s humor is all about finding the contradictions in modern life that we’ve stopped noticing. Things like the following sign in a beauty salon: Ears pierced while you wait.

Just imagine the alternative. I’ll leave my ears hear until 5. I’ve got a couple of errands to run. But I’ll be back to pick them up. What? I couldn’t hear you.

Trickster humor is all about finding those sorts of contradictions and pointing them out. Also about crossing boundaries that are normally left intact. If there were an Olympics in martyrdom, my grandmother would have lost on purpose…

Check out Emily and learn from her. She’s a comedian in the classic sense — she tells jokes. That’s very hard to do. As you watch the talk, note how she ‘sells’ her jokes with her body. When she talks about not hanging up on telemarketers, because Emily Post says itŠs rude, she devises another strategy. After the telemarketer has delivered about half his pitch, she says, “I interrupted with, ‘You sound really sexy’. He hung up on me!” She says the ‘really sexy’ line with a husky voice, and sells the punch line with a pelvic stance. The tone of voice and the posture are essential to the humor.

So, if you’re determined to attempt traditional comedy in your speeches, then practice selling the jokes with your body language and voice. You’re got to be 100 percent committed to the joke — body and all. And then you’ve got to have a back up plan for recovery. Study tapes of Jon Stewart , or any other of the late night comedians — he is the master of what to do when the first joke goes flat. Often his comebacks and reactions are funnier than the original line.

Beyond that, look for the contradictions. That’s where the humor is, and the punch lines. Traditional humor is all about setting up expectations and then violating them, crossing the boundaries of expectation. And finding connections where no one else sees them.

Irony is the humor of the era

If you don’t want to risk throwing out punch lines, consider irony. At its worst, irony is a cheap, easy way to get a chuckle and avoid making a commitment. At its best, irony is a memorable way for the alienated to comment on the ‘in crowd’, the powerless to bring down the powerful, and the hip to skewer the not-so-hip. John Hodgman provides a brilliant example of wonderful irony on TED.com. Check it out for how to do irony well.

Hodgman begins by talking about Enrico Fermi the brilliant Italian physicist, and aliens. The kind that come in space ships and land in the Nevada desert, that is. Hodgman says, “Isn’t it strange that he only asked for one thing? A gift of two healthy sperm whales? That’s not true, but it is strange.”

There are 3 rules for making irony memorable rather than cheap.

Rule Number One. Create an overarching story that is different from what you’re apparently talking about. This narrative misdirection enables you to take an ironical (because distant) stance toward your real topic. There’s considerable wit in what Hodgman does, but the predominant mode is ironical. “The aliens might be very far away,” he says, in explaining why we haven’t seen them yet, “Even on other planets.” He brilliantly illustrates the first rule of great irony by providing an overall narrative that is different from what he is apparently talking about. Hodgman’s apparent narrative is all about his (non) encounters with aliens, but his real narrative is all about how he, a nerd, found love, got married, and remains in love today.

It’s a very sweet story, told with delicacy and tact — and irony. Most cheap irony lacks the meta-narrative that gives a good story its structure. Cheap irony is usually just a pot shot at something the narrator doesn’t like but can’t do much about.

Rule Number Two. The second rule of great irony is that something important has to be at stake. In Hodgman’s case, it’s love. He is traveling in Portugal with the girl who becomes his wife, and she goes off on her own to check out a beach. She’s a long time coming back to the hotel, and Hodgman realizes how alone he is in the universe. As he says, “I could not call her on a cell phone because the aliens had not given us that technology yet.”

But what’s at stake can be anything important that the speaker-narrator cares about. Cheap irony has nothing behind it — no alternative that it is proposing. Powerful irony points to a better way.

Rule Number Three. The third rule of irony is that its viewpoint has to run counter to the one held by those currently in power. Again, in Hodgman’s case, the predominant viewpoint is that nerds can’t find love. After all, it’s the Prom Kings and Queens that get love, right? Hodgman quietly and ironically insists on the contrary, that nerds can find love, too. “Even though we are married, I love her and wait for her still,° he says, perhaps the best last (ironical) line of a love story in recent years.

Wit is the humor that creates charm and impresses with intelligence

I have three suggestions for how you can achieve wit, but first begin by watching J. J. Abrams, the TV and movie producer and director of hits like MI-3 , Lost , and the new Star Trek . The talk is witty, as is the man. This TED.com talk is also full of insights into creativity that will stick with you once the wit has worked its charm and moved on.

First Suggestion: Don’t try too hard. Wit flows from passion for the subject. If you feel strongly about something, you will find wit in the subject and you will share it with your audience. Unless of course you’re a corporate accountant who’s idea of fun is a late night with a multi-celled spreadsheet.

That said, one of the wittier speakers I’ve heard was a lecturer on accounting, who used the Wells Fargo company as his example, back in the day when it had to account for losses of the strong box because of marauding Indians. His passion for the subject of accounting led him to this witty way to explain an otherwise dreary subject.

Second Suggestion: Wit is all about upending expectations. The wit is in the surprise. J.J. shows a clip from the “Lost” pilot episode, with a downed aircraft and lots of gore and mayhem, with very impressive special effects. He says, “Ten years ago if we wanted to do that, we would have had to kill a stunt man… Take Two would have been a bitch.” You’re not quite sure where he’s going, but the second sentence is witty because it is surprising.

Third Suggestion: To be witty, take the subject, but not yourself, seriously. Wit begins with yourself, with self-deprecation. It’s one reason why the British are so much better at it, culturally speaking, than Americans. The British are expert self-deprecators, probably because they have to put up with more pomposity in the form of 2,000, rather than 200, years of tradition and history. But when pressed, we can do it too. J. J. Abrams says, of filming Mission Impossible III , that his favorite scene is the one that involves shooting a dangerous drug up Tom Cruise’s nose. He says, “I quickly learned that there are three things you don’t want to do. Number two is hurt Tom’s nose.” The scene, which you should now go back and watch again, actually has Tom Cruise’s hand shooting the dart-filled gun up his own nose (because he knew how hard to push).

That’s the magic of the movies. And that’s wit.

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200+ Most Funny Speech Topics to Make You Laugh! (2023)
180 Funny Speech Topics to Blow the Minds of Audience
How to Write a Funny Speech (with Pictures)
How to Write a Funny Speech (with Pictures)
6 Ways to Guarantee Laughs During Your Next Speech
How to Write a Funny Speech (with Pictures)

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COMMENTS

40 Funny Speech Opening Lines: Make 'Em Laugh
40 Funny Speech Opening Lines: Make 'Em Laugh Before You Even Begin! May 19, 2024 . Think of your speech opening line like the first bite of a delicious meal - it sets the tone and leaves you wanting more. A well-crafted, funny speech opening lines can instantly break the ice, make your audience feel at ease, and build anticipation for what ...
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Review the challenge to find mentally strange funny speech topics in 24 hours. Women marry much younger men. Bare funny facts about men. Funny facts about women. Rules men wish women knew. How to become a rat and make a fortune. Funny first date experiences. A true story that ain't be true in the end … Unusual incidents. Helpful pinball ...
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Funny Motivational Quotes Related to Public Speaking. A really good way to add humor to any speech is to insert a funny quote from a famous person. These funny motivational quotes are very easy to insert. In fact, you can add them to your speech introduction right at the start. That will lighten the tension in the room and get your audience ...
How to Write a Funny Speech (with Pictures)
A strictly humorous speech, on the other hand, will primarily aim to make the audience laugh -- whether or not it's particularly informative isn't the main concern. If you're writing a speech whose primary goal is to convey information or ideas, you'll want to integrate humor while focussing on the ideas you want to convey.
100+ Fun and Silly Persuasive Speech Topics Everyone Will Enjoy
Tips for Presenting Silly Persuasive Speech Topics. Presenting silly persuasive speech topics requires more than just choosing an outrageous idea. The way you deliver your speech can make or break its impact. Here's how to ensure your presentation hits all the right notes: Use Humor Strategically
Great funny speeches: how to get the laughter you want
Those great funny speeches you admire bring more than a knowledge of the basic "ha-ha, hee-hee" building blocks together. 4. Storytelling & characterization. How to use humorous stories or anecdotes in speeches. There's three pages to browse. All of them will deepen your understanding.
How to Write a Funny Speech That Will Have Your Audience Rolling in
Delivering a funny speech is a daunting task, and doing it well can seem like a near-impossible feat. But with the right tools and techniques, anyone can successfully craft and deliver a humorous speech that will leave your audience in stitches. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a funny speech that will ...
6 Ways to Guarantee Laughs During Your Next Speech
The main idea when writing your funny speech is to shift your own perspective from frustrated to amused. #2: Use Your Physicality to Communicate. Humor isn't just about the words you say. A major part of making a good joke and creating a funny speech is using your body language to tell the story.
Funny Speech Topics to Make Your Audience Laugh
3. Write Your Speech First - Write out the speech first before even attempting to deliver it in front of others. This will give you more control over the timing and pacing of key punch lines for optimum effect¹. It also eliminates any confusion about the order you want to deliver your jokes in front of an audience. 4.
Funny speeches: how to use humor in public speaking
Let's start with an example of a funny speech by Emily Levine. Emily Levine is a self-proclaimed trickster and a very funny person. She's Harvard-trained and still manages to be hilarious. Emily's humor is all about finding the contradictions in modern life that we've stopped noticing.