Lee Mack
A mechanism-level breakdown of 119 analyzed bits from Lee Mack (2007–2010), spanning 2 specials. Every excerpt is tagged with its primary humor mechanism using the Comedy Stack framework.
- Analyzed bits
- 119
- Specials
- 2
- Active range
- 2007–2010
- Go-to mechanism
- incongruity-resolution
How Lee gets laughs
Distribution across the primary humor mechanisms in the analyzed set.
119 attributed excerpts
Short quoted bits used here as editorial examples of Lee Mack’s mechanism-level craft. Each excerpt links to its full-transcript source.
“Well done, mate. I feel bad now. You missed the beginning of the show. I’ll fill you in. You haven’t missed much. Dan’s a paedophile.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Well done, mate. I feel bad now. You missed the beginning of the show. I’ll fill you in. You haven’t missed much.', then the trigger 'Dan’s a paedophile.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“You want to do something with your life and to educating yourself, and I commend you for that. Do you know where I studied, Ian?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'You want to do something with your life and to educating yourself, and I commend you for that.', then the trigger 'Do you know where I studied, Ian?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Thank you very much for coming out. Thank you very much.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Thank you very much for coming out.', then the trigger 'Thank you very much.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“We always get the blame. Parents have always got the blame. It doesn’t matter who they are.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'We always get the blame. Parents have always got the blame.', then the trigger 'It doesn’t matter who they are.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
““Don’t leave us hanging.” Cos that’s how they speak in London. Sorry for locking you in the box, by the way, lads. Sorry about that.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '“Don’t leave us hanging.” Cos that’s how they speak in London. Sorry for locking you in the box, by the way, lads.', then the trigger 'Sorry about that.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“And they’re horrible! They taste like pineapples. Everyone goes on about the French, the French fancy food. “Ooh, we love fancy…” No-one really likes fancy.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'And they’re horrible! They taste like pineapples. Everyone goes on about the French, the French fancy food.', then the trigger '“Ooh, we love fancy…” No-one really likes fancy.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Who said that? Thank you very much. That is exactly what I said and I got told I was an old fuddy-duddy and stuffy.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Who said that? Thank you very much.', then the trigger 'That is exactly what I said and I got told I was an old fuddy-duddy and stuffy.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I love it when someone’s so Scouse, they sound like they’re turning into a dolphin. “Hey, you, are you Lee Mackkkkk? “Are you Lee Mackkkk-kkkkkk?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I love it when someone’s so Scouse, they sound like they’re turning into a dolphin. “Hey, you, are you Lee Mackkkkk?', then the trigger '“Are you Lee Mackkkk-kkkkkk?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“One joke – my favourite joke – hasn’t been working on the tour. I thought, they’re wrong, I’m right. I think it’s a brilliant joke.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'One joke – my favourite joke – hasn’t been working on the tour. I thought, they’re wrong, I’m right.', then the trigger 'I think it’s a brilliant joke.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“You were safer in the box! I’m obsessed by the whole swearing thing. In the newspapers, they do the asterisk. F, asterisk, asterisk, asterisk.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'You were safer in the box! I’m obsessed by the whole swearing thing. In the newspapers, they do the asterisk.', then the trigger 'F, asterisk, asterisk, asterisk.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I rung up for some car insurance the other day.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I rung up for some car insurance', then the trigger 'the other day.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“A nice friendly debate, a big row. I thought I’d made a good point. We’re walking along the beach and I said, “Interesting, isn’t it?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'A nice friendly debate, a big row. I thought I’d made a good point.', then the trigger 'We’re walking along the beach and I said, “Interesting, isn’t it?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Did you do it on your own? Yes, and that’s what’s making this country so great! Let’s hear it for the Dan! Well done, Dan.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Did you do it on your own? Yes, and that’s what’s making this country so great! Let’s hear it for the Dan!', then the trigger 'Well done, Dan.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“The text of the Bible is a bit confusing and old-fashioned, because people don’t speak like that any more, do they? Like the Noah story.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'The text of the Bible is a bit confusing and old-fashioned, because people don’t speak like that any more, do they?', then the trigger 'Like the Noah story.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“She looks great. But did you feel the tension in the room? I called Dan a paedophile, I said I once blacked up… Nothing.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'She looks great. But did you feel the tension in the room?', then the trigger 'I called Dan a paedophile, I said I once blacked up… Nothing.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I once shouted out, Henry VIII, and the answer was nitrogen. How is that possible? You’ve got to watch kids’ adverts with the kids.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I once shouted out, Henry VIII, and the answer was nitrogen. How is that possible?', then the trigger 'You’ve got to watch kids’ adverts with the kids.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
““Can I have your shoes?” # Who will buy my matches? # “Can I have your shoes, Lee?” What are you doing, you weirdo?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '“Can I have your shoes?” # Who will buy my matches?', then the trigger '# “Can I have your shoes, Lee?” What are you doing, you weirdo?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
““Hey, baby, what’s your name?” “A dog!” “A dog!” What was the name of the dog? You’ve had the last five minutes to think.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '“Hey, baby, what’s your name?” “A dog!” “A dog!” What was the name of the dog?', then the trigger 'You’ve had the last five minutes to think.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“It’s very spotty, isn’t it? I’m not looking at your tits. I’m trying to find out if I’m colour blind. What’s your name, madam?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'It’s very spotty, isn’t it? I’m not looking at your tits. I’m trying to find out if I’m colour blind.', then the trigger 'What’s your name, madam?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“That was wanker, obviously. I can’t help thinking though, if that’s bollocks, maybe this should be wanker… Oh, you’re back. The kids are back.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'That was wanker, obviously. I can’t help thinking though, if that’s bollocks, maybe this should be wanker… Oh, you’re...', then the trigger 'The kids are back.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
““How’s your health? Your health for her. “That’s all you need, your mum and your health and your legs. “How’s your legs? You got legs?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '“How’s your health? Your health for her. “That’s all you need, your mum and your health and your legs. “How’s your legs?', then the trigger 'You got legs?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“He did a massive poo and it was all over. # In the sun… # Bwwwrrpt! “Oh, I say, that feels a lot better, Noel.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'He did a massive poo and it was all over. # In the sun… # Bwwwrrpt!', then the trigger '“Oh, I say, that feels a lot better, Noel.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“# Oasis were the worst, of course. # In the sunshiiiiiiine! # That bloke was constipated with Manchesterness. That’s why he had to leave.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '# Oasis were the worst, of course. # In the sunshiiiiiiine! # That bloke was constipated with Manchesterness.', then the trigger 'That’s why he had to leave.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I walked in, I said, “Are you all right?” He went, “No, I’m scared.” I said, “What are you scared of?” How heartbreaking is this?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I walked in, I said, “Are you all right?” He went, “No, I’m scared.” I said, “What', then the trigger 'are you scared of?” How heartbreaking is this?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“It’s too hard to write. You’re supposed to talk about stuff you’ve noticed. My problem is I don’t notice anything cos I don’t do anything.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'It’s too hard to write. You’re supposed to talk about stuff you’ve noticed.', then the trigger 'My problem is I don’t notice anything cos I don’t do anything.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“The weird thing was I didn’t even fancy her, but I’m a massive fan of snooker and six points is six points, isn’t it?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'The weird thing was I didn’t even fancy her, but I’m a massive fan of snooker', then the trigger 'and six points is six points, isn’t it?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“You do your best, but it goes. It always backfires when I do my best.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'You do your best, but it goes.', then the trigger 'It always backfires when I do my best.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
““Just go and get us another bottle of hooch, you daft bitch.” “You sure yous want one?” “Aye. Why not?” “I’ll tell yous why.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '“Just go and get us another bottle of hooch, you daft bitch.” “You sure yous want one?” “Aye.', then the trigger 'Why not?” “I’ll tell yous why.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
““I’ve got to build the wall. See you later.” Questions from the top. I’m a bit disappointed… You’re a bit disappointed because of what?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '“I’ve got to build the wall. See you later.” Questions from the top.', then the trigger 'I’m a bit disappointed… You’re a bit disappointed because of what?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
““You know the government have raised duty on alcopops by 12.5%?” HE GASPS “He’s what?! “That is totally disproportionate to the rate of inflation.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '“You know the government have raised duty on alcopops by 12.5%?” HE GASPS “He’s what?!', then the trigger '“That is totally disproportionate to the rate of inflation.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Not but I’ve got a problem. I don’t know what your opinion on the subject is. Personally, I’ve always thought prostitution should be cheaper.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Not but I’ve got a problem. I don’t know what your opinion on the subject is.', then the trigger 'Personally, I’ve always thought prostitution should be cheaper.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Is that the problem with that joke? I can almost hear the conversations. “I don’t get that one, Trevor. Do you?” “No, my darling.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Is that the problem with that joke? I can almost hear the conversations. “I don’t get that one, Trevor.', then the trigger 'Do you?” “No, my darling.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I learnt misery and pain and sorrow! Sorry, it wasn’t the University of Life, it was the University of Fife, sorry. It’s good you’re learning.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I learnt misery and pain and sorrow! Sorry, it wasn’t the University of Life, it was the University of Fife, sorry.', then the trigger 'It’s good you’re learning.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I’m not an idiot. And they nick all our words, like bananas. What do they do? Get rid of the letter B, call them, ananas.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I’m not an idiot. And they nick all our words, like bananas. What do they do?', then the trigger 'Get rid of the letter B, call them, ananas.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is absurdism.
“I would rather have the pig. Oysters, collected off the ocean bed by a half-naked Filipino boy. I prefer a takeaway. I love Subway.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I would rather have the pig. Oysters, collected off the ocean bed by a half-naked Filipino boy. I prefer a takeaway.', then the trigger 'I love Subway.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“How funny was that? They’ve given him a dog now! How’s that possibly going to help, does he blame the dog? Not me, Charlie.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'How funny was that? They’ve given him a dog now! How’s that possibly going to help, does he blame the dog?', then the trigger 'Not me, Charlie.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“He tried to offer me Nectar points! Let me tell you something about Nectar points. I spent the last two years collecting Nectar points.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'He tried to offer me Nectar points! Let me tell you something about Nectar points.', then the trigger 'I spent the last two years collecting Nectar points.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
““I heard he had a stroke in the children’s ward.” What is it about technology that turns you into the sickest f… in the world?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '“I heard he had a stroke in the children’s ward.” What is it about technology that turns', then the trigger 'you into the sickest f… in the world?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“She’s got half her arm missing, right? You knew which half, didn’t you? Even the builder knew! It was the other half, didn’t you?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'She’s got half her arm missing, right? You knew which half, didn’t you? Even the builder knew!', then the trigger 'It was the other half, didn’t you?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Someone who sounds like she’s working on a fruit and veg stall in the East End. Know what I mean, love? Know what I mean?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Someone who sounds like she’s working on a fruit and veg stall in the East End. Know what I mean, love?', then the trigger 'Know what I mean?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is imitation.
“Here’s a moral question about age for you. How old do you have to be before a girl is allowed to have her ears pierced?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Here’s a moral question about age for you.', then the trigger 'How old do you have to be before a girl is allowed to have her ears pierced?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“It’s all right, isn’t it? So, have you got any questions? Sorry, what was that? LONDON ACCENT: What makes you laugh? What makes me laugh?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'It’s all right, isn’t it? So, have you got any questions? Sorry, what was that? LONDON ACCENT: What makes you laugh?', then the trigger 'What makes me laugh?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
““Nothing!” You don’t have to separate them. If I said to you lot, “I haven’t slept for 40 days,” you’d rush me to hospital.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '“Nothing!” You don’t have to separate them.', then the trigger 'If I said to you lot, “I haven’t slept for 40 days,” you’d rush me to hospital.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Did it work?” “Did it work the next night? What about Asda points? “They’ve all got an Asda. Come on, mate, stay with it.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Did it work?” “Did it work the next night? What about Asda points? “They’ve all got an Asda.', then the trigger 'Come on, mate, stay with it.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I used to say, “Come on, Mum. Can’t we get a PlayStation?” There’s…there’s different types of jokes, a bit of observational, not too much.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I used to say, “Come on, Mum.', then the trigger 'Can’t we get a PlayStation?” There’s…there’s different types of jokes, a bit of observational, not too much.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“It rain for 40 days and 40 nights. People don’t speak like that any more. You don’t have to say both, or split them up.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'It rain for 40 days and 40 nights. People don’t speak like that any more.', then the trigger 'You don’t have to say both, or split them up.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“It’s a fact. I read that! What’s your name, madam? How are you, Charlene? Nice to see you, Charlene. Can I ask you a question?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'It’s a fact. I read that! What’s your name, madam? How are you, Charlene? Nice to see you, Charlene.', then the trigger 'Can I ask you a question?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Head out of the fridge. Let’s have a look upstairs.” “Biscuits!” Did you read about that? Biscuits are the most dangerous product in the house.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Head out of the fridge. Let’s have a look upstairs.” “Biscuits!” Did you read about that?', then the trigger 'Biscuits are the most dangerous product in the house.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“People complain, saying she shouldn’t be allowed on television. How wrong is that? Politically and morally incorrect. She is genuinely the best presenter on CBeebies.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'People complain, saying she shouldn’t be allowed on television. How wrong is that? Politically and morally incorrect.', then the trigger 'She is genuinely the best presenter on CBeebies.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“It’s like a curse. Right, get back out again! What’s your name, mate? What do you do, Pete? Speed should have told me that.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'It’s like a curse. Right, get back out again! What’s your name, mate? What do you do, Pete?', then the trigger 'Speed should have told me that.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
““I’m scared of a third world war.” [AUDIENCE] Aw-w! I picked that little fella up and I held him tightly.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '“I’m scared of a third world war.” [AUDIENCE] Aw-w!', then the trigger 'I picked that little fella up and I held him tightly.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“You’re on the front row of an event that’s being filmed for television. How less a chance could you get away with that than that?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'You’re on the front row of an event that’s being filmed for television.', then the trigger 'How less a chance could you get away with that than that?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
““Why give Hank Marvin a cheese sandwich if he wants to masturbate?” “I was wondering the same thing. Maybe the sandwich is for Cliff Richard.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '“Why give Hank Marvin a cheese sandwich if he wants to masturbate?” “I was wondering the same thing.', then the trigger 'Maybe the sandwich is for Cliff Richard.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“First you didn’t hear the Isle of Wight and now you can’t… That’s not going to work as a porn star name, is it?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'First you didn’t hear the Isle of Wight and now you can’t… That’s not going to', then the trigger 'work as a porn star name, is it?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“When I say hobnobbing with the stars, I don’t mean eating chocolate biscuits with Kerry Katona. That’s a battle you’re never going to win.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'When I say hobnobbing with the stars, I don’t mean eating chocolate biscuits with Kerry Katona.', then the trigger 'That’s a battle you’re never going to win.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“”Will it fit in the house? Is it the right shape?” I realised after 15 minutes, I hadn’t listened to a word she’d said.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '”Will it fit in the house?', then the trigger 'Is it the right shape?” I realised after 15 minutes, I hadn’t listened to a word she’d said.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Yeah, I’m not saying it’s completely safe. I’m not telling you how to live your lives. I’m just here to give you the statistics.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Yeah, I’m not saying it’s completely safe. I’m not telling you how to live your lives.', then the trigger 'I’m just here to give you the statistics.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I’m obsessed with swearing. I’m absolutely obsessed with it. On TV you can’t swear till 9:30. Then after that you can do what you want.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I’m obsessed with swearing. I’m absolutely obsessed with it. On TV you can’t swear till 9:30.', then the trigger 'Then after that you can do what you want.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Yeah, you’re not laughing now, are you? It’s very sad actually. My mum actually got to the point where she couldn’t look after herself.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Yeah, you’re not laughing now, are you? It’s very sad actually.', then the trigger 'My mum actually got to the point where she couldn’t look after herself.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I love Tommy Steele films. They just sing about anything for no apparent reason.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I love Tommy Steele films.', then the trigger 'They just sing about anything for no apparent reason.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Is that how you do your alphabet? ”C” is for crack whore. I must remember this. It’s like a dirty version of Sesame Street.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Is that how you do your alphabet? ”C” is for crack whore. I must remember this.', then the trigger 'It’s like a dirty version of Sesame Street.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I met this girl. I was chatting her up in my usual classy, Northern way. ”All right, love.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I met this girl. I was chatting her up in my usual classy, Northern way.', then the trigger '”All right, love.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“In fact, we’ve had the baby. I just don’t want to drop the joke. I’d rather drop the baby. But, no, it’s going very well.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'In fact, we’ve had the baby. I just don’t want to drop the joke. I’d rather drop the baby.', then the trigger 'But, no, it’s going very well.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is meta-humor with incongruity-resolution.
“You’re not trying to sell to me. Where do you want me to go? I can go where you like, I can go here.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'You’re not trying to sell to me. Where do you want me to go?', then the trigger 'I can go where you like, I can go here.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“He said, ”Why didn’t you wait till I slapped me hand on the dashboard?” I said, ”There is a child’s life at stake here.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'He said, ”Why didn’t you wait till I slapped me hand on the dashboard?” I said,', then the trigger '”There is a child’s life at stake here.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Go to Australia and turn the television on, I guarantee some bloke will be shouting at you, ”Come to Frank’s Crazy Carpets half-price sale.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Go to Australia and turn the television on, I guarantee some bloke will be shouting at', then the trigger 'you, ”Come to Frank’s Crazy Carpets half-price sale.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“”Is that a trick question?” And how old are you? Looking forward to Christmas? Bless your cotton socks. It’s quite a young-looking crowd in tonight.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '”Is that a trick question?” And how old are you? Looking forward to Christmas? Bless your cotton socks.', then the trigger 'It’s quite a young-looking crowd in tonight.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Look what happened to Bernard Manning. Read about that? He did all this anti-Muslim material. Someone emailed him, threatened to put a fatwa on him.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Look what happened to Bernard Manning. Read about that? He did all this anti-Muslim material.', then the trigger 'Someone emailed him, threatened to put a fatwa on him.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“They’ve got equally pretentious adverts in France. The British adverts in France, they’re the most pretentious in the world. ”I see her on t’beach.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'They’ve got equally pretentious adverts in France. The British adverts in France, they’re the most pretentious in the...', then the trigger '”I see her on t’beach.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“How did you get up there, you liar? There’s nothing wrong with you. Sitting in your wheelchair… Oh, you make me sick, people like you.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'How did you get up there, you liar? There’s nothing wrong with you.', then the trigger 'Sitting in your wheelchair… Oh, you make me sick, people like you.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“We got crazy deals ’cause we’re Crazy Carpets. ”I must be bonkers. 50% off at Frank’s Crazy Bonkers Carpets. ”What’s the matter with me?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'We got crazy deals ’cause we’re Crazy Carpets. ”I must be bonkers. 50% off at Frank’s Crazy Bonkers Carpets.', then the trigger '”What’s the matter with me?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“”I don’t care what you think about…” If there’s any French people in the audience tonight, laugh all you like about our crappy food.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '”I don’t care what you think about…” If there’s any French people in the audience tonight,', then the trigger 'laugh all you like about our crappy food.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Be great if they messed that up now and again. ”Here’s the favourite from Bulgaria. If she gets a perfect 10, she wins the gold.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Be great if they messed that up now and again. ”Here’s the favourite from Bulgaria.', then the trigger 'If she gets a perfect 10, she wins the gold.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“”Don’t you run away.” Actually, I’m not condoning it. It’s wrong to drink and drive. It is for me. I haven’t got a licence.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '”Don’t you run away.” Actually, I’m not condoning it. It’s wrong to drink and drive. It is for me.', then the trigger 'I haven’t got a licence.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Bye, Mr Wangtong.” Hello, madam, with the thing going on. You there, with the… Not you, mate. I’m not looking at you, am I?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Bye, Mr Wangtong.” Hello, madam, with the thing going on. You there, with the… Not you, mate.', then the trigger 'I’m not looking at you, am I?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is benign-violation.
“That’s generally people, innit? Unless you’re into really sordid stuff. [GROWLING] Sorry about doing that with your hat to prove a point. Sorry about that.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'That’s generally people, innit? Unless you’re into really sordid stuff. [GROWLING] Sorry about doing that with your h...', then the trigger 'Sorry about that.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I’m getting pissed. I’ve got a confession to make, actually. I’m drinking and driving tonight. There’s an advertising campaign you won’t see this Christmas.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I’m getting pissed. I’ve got a confession to make, actually. I’m drinking and driving tonight.', then the trigger 'There’s an advertising campaign you won’t see this Christmas.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Did you ever get that at school? ”You’re adopted!” My brother used to say it all the time in the playground. I used to cry.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Did you ever get that at school? ”You’re adopted!” My brother used to say it all the time in the playground.', then the trigger 'I used to cry.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Run!” Yet the same bloke, two hours later, when you were going for your dinner, running down the corridor, he’d jump out and go, ”Oi!”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Run!” Yet the same bloke, two hours later, when you were going for your dinner, running down', then the trigger 'the corridor, he’d jump out and go, ”Oi!' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“You tell me the pet, I’ll tell you the person. Do you know what that means? A very loving person, very honest and very open.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'You tell me the pet, I’ll tell you the person. Do you know what that means?', then the trigger 'A very loving person, very honest and very open.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“You gotta get the beginning bit right. That’s why I came on to Franz Ferdinand. ‘Cause I wanted a big impact when I came on.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'You gotta get the beginning bit right. That’s why I came on to Franz Ferdinand.', then the trigger '‘Cause I wanted a big impact when I came on.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Why do we need it? We’re not predictive talking, why do we need predictive writing? It’d be great if we did have predictive talking.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Why do we need it? We’re not predictive talking, why do we need predictive writing?', then the trigger 'It’d be great if we did have predictive talking.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I’ll tell you. ”I’m half-price, carpet-bonkers crazy this bank holiday Monday.” ”I’m John Shed and I’ve gone shed-mental at Shed World. ”33% off a shed?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I’ll tell you. ”I’m half-price, carpet-bonkers crazy this bank holiday Monday.” ”I’m John Shed and I’ve gone shed-men...', then the trigger '”33% off a shed?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Unless you’re into auto-asphyxiation erotica. They want stringing up, don’t they? I’ve got loads of gay friends and there’s two things they say they hate.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Unless you’re into auto-asphyxiation erotica. They want stringing up, don’t they?', then the trigger 'I’ve got loads of gay friends and there’s two things they say they hate.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“To be fair, it wasn’t just her. The magistrate told me that as well. What was it he said again?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'To be fair, it wasn’t just her. The magistrate told me that as well.', then the trigger 'What was it he said again?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“But how many Catholics does it take to change a light bulb? They’re brilliant, too. Please don’t hurt me. Whereabouts in Ireland are you from?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'But how many Catholics does it take to change a light bulb? They’re brilliant, too. Please don’t hurt me.', then the trigger 'Whereabouts in Ireland are you from?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“That was the gist, right? Now, at this point, obviously, I’d lost faith with women. But it didn’t matter ’cause then I heard number three.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'That was the gist, right? Now, at this point, obviously, I’d lost faith with women.', then the trigger 'But it didn’t matter ’cause then I heard number three.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“And that’s ‘five’. ”It could be anything, couldn’t it? Possesses, possesses, four S’s. ”Possesses, possesses, three S’s.” She went, ”Yeah, that’s a good point, Lee.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'And that’s ‘five’. ”It could be anything, couldn’t it? Possesses, possesses, four S’s.', then the trigger '”Possesses, possesses, three S’s.” She went, ”Yeah, that’s a good point, Lee.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I was always cheeky. I remember once this teacher said to us, ”There’s an easy way to remember how to spell possesses, a little rhyme.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I was always cheeky.', then the trigger 'I remember once this teacher said to us, ”There’s an easy way to remember how to spell possesses, a little rhyme.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“She used to say things like, ”Red sky at night, Angel Delight. ”Red sky in the morning, Angel Delight.” She was obsessed with Angel Delight.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'She used to say things like, ”Red sky at night, Angel Delight.', then the trigger '”Red sky in the morning, Angel Delight.” She was obsessed with Angel Delight.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“And as a result you’re very popular with the opposite sex. You’re very good in bed. I’ve got a cat. So what’s your cat called?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'And as a result you’re very popular with the opposite sex. You’re very good in bed. I’ve got a cat.', then the trigger 'So what’s your cat called?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is benign-violation.
“I think the BBC think, as a nation, we’re all just stood round going, ”Oh, Marjorie, could you possibly pass me the bread sauce?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I think the BBC think, as a nation, we’re all just stood round going, ”Oh, Marjorie,', then the trigger 'could you possibly pass me the bread sauce?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Are you… Wind the window down. Wind it down. Lots of fan. Do you ever do that thing when you fall… I always do this.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Are you… Wind the window down. Wind it down. Lots of fan.', then the trigger 'Do you ever do that thing when you fall… I always do this.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Where you going? Where you going? What you doing? What you doing? There’s a poster out there that says no filming in the auditorium.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Where you going? Where you going? What you doing? What you doing?', then the trigger 'There’s a poster out there that says no filming in the auditorium.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Buy a shed off me.” I’ll tell you the best ones in the world, without any shadow of a doubt, the French perfume adverts.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Buy a shed off me.” I’ll tell you the best ones in the world, without any', then the trigger 'shadow of a doubt, the French perfume adverts.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“It used to be agony. But then about three weeks later, we got this supply teacher in and he was brilliant. He was Chinese, right.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'It used to be agony. But then about three weeks later, we got this supply teacher in and he was brilliant.', then the trigger 'He was Chinese, right.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“They were over 35 quid, these shoes. And if I’m gonna be honest, my surname’s not really Mack, it’s MacKillop.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'They were over 35 quid, these shoes.', then the trigger 'And if I’m gonna be honest, my surname’s not really Mack, it’s MacKillop.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is benign-violation.
“I think I’ll go home and get me shawl. ”Me little nipples have gone all hard.” My favourite accent’s actually the South African accent.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I think I’ll go home and get me shawl.', then the trigger '”Me little nipples have gone all hard.” My favourite accent’s actually the South African accent.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“”That’s a bit old-fashioned, Dad.” Very sad. Actually my sister died very young. But, you know, like my dad said, ”Look on the bright side.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '”That’s a bit old-fashioned, Dad.” Very sad. Actually my sister died very young.', then the trigger 'But, you know, like my dad said, ”Look on the bright side.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“”Here’s the weather.” I said to some bloke… It was brilliant, the other day.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '”Here’s the weather.” I said to some bloke… It', then the trigger 'was brilliant, the other day.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“”I’m a cat, I’m in control. ”I can clean any part of my body I like. ”The ears, the head, the tail, the legs.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '”I’m a cat, I’m in control. ”I can clean any part of my body I like.', then the trigger '”The ears, the head, the tail, the legs.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“He said, ”Has my wife had the baby?” I said, ”Yes.” He said, ”What’s the news?” I said, ”Monday’s child is fair of face.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'He said, ”Has my wife had the baby?” I said, ”Yes.” He said, ”What’s the news?”', then the trigger 'I said, ”Monday’s child is fair of face.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“You remind me of my driving instructor. Lend me those glasses for a second. What do you do, Nev? I’m a lawyer. You’re a lawyer?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'You remind me of my driving instructor. Lend me those glasses for a second. What do you do, Nev? I’m a lawyer.', then the trigger 'You’re a lawyer?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is superiority.
“I’ll be honest, I’m a bit of an Anglophile. That’s not the same as a paedophile, by the way. I only touch up fishermen’s kids.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I’ll be honest, I’m a bit of an Anglophile. That’s not the same as a paedophile, by the way.', then the trigger 'I only touch up fishermen’s kids.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“You make your own minds up. All I will say is, if you’re drinking and driving tonight, three tennis balls in the glove box.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'You make your own minds up.', then the trigger 'All I will say is, if you’re drinking and driving tonight, three tennis balls in the glove box.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“I hope it is. That would be appropriate for a comedy gig.” What’s your name with the lion, sir? Dan and… Daniel and the lion.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'I hope it is. That would be appropriate for a comedy gig.” What’s your name with the lion, sir?', then the trigger 'Dan and… Daniel and the lion.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Thank you very much for coming to the show and good night! Thanks very much. Thank you, London Town.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Thank you very much for coming to the show and good night! Thanks very much.', then the trigger 'Thank you, London Town.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“What’s that noise? ”Has he got a kind face? ”Is Betty still sat?” I’d like to see you doing your court of law thing.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'What’s that noise? ”Has he got a kind face?', then the trigger '”Is Betty still sat?” I’d like to see you doing your court of law thing.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“How old is She-Ra? Six, with a big question mark at the end. I dunno, I’m not bothered any more. ”I can’t find it.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'How old is She-Ra? Six, with a big question mark at the end. I dunno, I’m not bothered any more.', then the trigger '”I can’t find it.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“”Then I’d come straight round to your house and show you my tits.” Or something like that. I can’t remember exactly what she said.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '”Then I’d come straight round to your house and show you my tits.” Or something like that.', then the trigger 'I can’t remember exactly what she said.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“We’re going home! Drag your knuckles.” Hello, sir, in the front row there, you all right? I’m all right. Yeah, you’re welcome. What’s your name?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'We’re going home! Drag your knuckles.” Hello, sir, in the front row there, you all right? I’m all right. Yeah, you’re...', then the trigger 'What’s your name?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is benign-violation.
“You’ve been a lovely audience. Thank you very much, Bloomsbury Theatre! Thank you very much. [CROWD CHEERING] [CROWD CHEERING] Hello. Oh, I hate that bit.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'You’ve been a lovely audience. Thank you very much, Bloomsbury Theatre! Thank you very much. [CROWD CHEERING] [CROWD...', then the trigger 'Oh, I hate that bit.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is benign-violation.
“She used to say things like, ”Here’s £?5, don’t tell your mother.” I’d say, ”Why not?” And she’d say, ”It’s hers.” She was great.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'She used to say things like, ”Here’s £?5, don’t tell your mother.” I’d say, ”Why not?”', then the trigger 'And she’d say, ”It’s hers.” She was great.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Everyone wants to know how you got started. I got started at school. I was always the one that would argue with the teachers.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Everyone wants to know how you got started. I got started at school.', then the trigger 'I was always the one that would argue with the teachers.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“That’d be brilliant. ”Where’d you go today?” ”Today? ”I wallabyed, I wanked, I washed, I walked. I can’t turn it off. ”Tip, top, to!”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'That’d be brilliant. ”Where’d you go today?” ”Today? ”I wallabyed, I wanked, I washed, I walked. I can’t turn it off.', then the trigger '”Tip, top, to!' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“”Do you do refunds?” ”No.” They said, ”Listen, Lee, you’re a comedian, right. ”In fact, you’re a great comedian. In fact, you’re a genius.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward '”Do you do refunds?” ”No.” They said, ”Listen, Lee, you’re a comedian, right. ”In fact, you’re a great comedian.', then the trigger 'In fact, you’re a genius.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Whack us like that, really hard. Table tennis bats, that’s what they used to love doing. I remember once, right, he hit us so hard.”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Whack us like that, really hard. Table tennis bats, that’s what they used to love doing.', then the trigger 'I remember once, right, he hit us so hard.' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“It’s quicker than walking ”and you won’t have to sit next to a pikey on the bus.” Do you do that thing as well?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'It’s quicker than walking ”and you won’t have to sit next to a pikey on the', then the trigger 'bus.” Do you do that thing as well?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
“Now, I’m a big fan of Irish dancing, don’t get me wrong, but it’s not exactly known for that upper body enthusiasm, is it?”
Why it works (Comedy Stack analysis)
The setup points the reader toward 'Now, I’m a big fan of Irish dancing, don’t get me wrong, but it’s not exactly', then the trigger 'known for that upper body enthusiasm, is it?' forces a reinterpretation. The main mechanism is incongruity-resolution.
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