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Humour Exercise: Question Answers and Grammar
Here is the full exercise for "Why do We Laugh Inappropriately?" from the Language Development section of Class 12 English Notes NEB:
Before You Read:
- What is the main idea of the article?
- The main idea of the article is to explore why people sometimes laugh in inappropriate situations.
- What is nervous laughter?
- Nervous laughter is a type of laughter that people use in uncomfortable or stressful situations as a way to cope with their emotions.
- Why do people laugh inappropriately?
- People may laugh inappropriately due to nervousness, anxiety, or social pressure to fit in with others. In some cases, it may also be a defense mechanism to avoid dealing with serious or uncomfortable situations.
- What are some examples of inappropriate laughter mentioned in the article?
- Some examples of inappropriate laughter mentioned in the article include laughing at a funeral, laughing during a serious conversation, and laughing at someone who is upset.
- According to the article, what are the consequences of inappropriate laughter?
- Inappropriate laughter can be hurtful or disrespectful to others, and it can also make the person doing the laughing feel guilty or embarrassed.
- How can you prevent inappropriate laughter?
- One way to prevent inappropriate laughter is to try to stay calm and focus on your breathing in stressful situations. It can also be helpful to try to shift your focus to something more positive or distracting.
- Do you think inappropriate laughter is a serious issue? Why or why not?
- This is a subjective question, and opinions may vary. Some people may believe that inappropriate laughter is a serious issue because it can be hurtful or disrespectful to others. Others may not see it as a serious issue and may view it as a natural human reaction in certain situations.
Also, Browse the following:
Working with words
A. The following words are synonyms and antonyms of the verb ‘laugh’. Group them into synonyms and antonyms.
Synonyms
chuckle, giggle, chortle, crackle, snicker, groan, smirk, whoop
Antonyms
grin, sob, grimace, frown, pout, scowl, cry, moan
B. Match the following emotions with their definitions.
a. fear
an unpleasant emotion caused by the threat of danger, pain, or harm
b. anger
a strong feeling of displeasure
c. surprise
an unexpected event, fact, etc.
d. disgust
a feeling of strong disapproval aroused by something unpleasant
e. sadness
affected with grief or unhappiness
f. happiness
a pleasurable or satisfying experience
g. relief
removal or lightening of something oppressive, painful, or distressing
h. triumph
a great victory or achievement
i. contentment
the quality or state of being satisfied
Comprehension Section
A. Complete the following sentences with words/ phrases from the text.
a. According to Sophie Scott, laughter is one of the important and misunderstood behaviours.
b. After her study in Namibia, Scott came to the realization that laughter is one of our richest vocal tics.
c. Studies have shown that there are six universal emotions across cultures based on facial expressions.
d. Scott found out that most of the laughs have nothing to do with humour.
e. The couples who laugh at each other will likely stay together longer.
f. The primary way of communication for grown-up people is laughing.
g. Comedians usually find it easier to work in larger places due to the contagious nature of laughter.
B. Answer the following questions.
a. Why do people giggle at someone’s pain or suffering?
People giggle at other people's suffering or pain because laughing through someone else's suffering or pain allows you to convince yourself (and other people) that everything is fine or that everything is at least getting better.
b. What did Scott’s study in Namibia come up with?
Scott's research in Namibia led him to think that laughter is one of the most important ways we communicate through sound.
c. How is laughter a social bonding?
Whether or not something is actually funny, laughter fosters social bonding because it is an emotion that unites people.
d. According to the author, what role does laughter play in husband-wife relationship?
The author says that because laughter makes it easier to let go of tension after a stressful event, it makes marriages stronger and lasts longer.
e. How does laughter work as a painkiller?
Endorphins are released when you laugh, which helps you feel less pain and makes you laugh more.
f. What did the study find about the relation between laughter and brain?
According to a study on the connection between laughter and the brain, both types of laughter seem to stimulate the parts of the brain known as the mirror regions, which are known for their propensity to imitate other people's behavior.
g. What are two emotions that the author associates with infants and adults?
Crying and laughter are two emotions that the author associates with infants and adults.
h. How does a stand-up comedian take the audience’s laughter?
A stand-up comedian exploits the audience's laughter by interacting with them, capitalizing on the contagious nature of laughter and causing fits of hysteria.
i. Show the relation between laughter and crowd.
The relationship between laughter and crowd is that laughter in a crowd is contagious, which means that it can easily catch a wave when there are more people in the crowd.
j. What does the author mean when he says "there is always a meaning to it?"
When the author says, "There is always a meaning to it," he means that even though it may seem trivial, fleeting, and pointless, laughter is never neutral and always has a meaning.
Critical thinking section
a. Do you agree that ‘the couples, who laugh together, stay together?’ Is it important for married couples to have the same sense of humour? Why?
Yes, I agree with the adage "couples who laugh together stay together." A sense of humour is a desirable characteristic. There is a lot of evidence from different cultures that being funny makes you more desirable as a mate. Simply having a funny bond does not mean you two are the perfect match; apparently, being able to laugh at the same things strengthens your relationship. A good sense of humour enhances a person's attractiveness. Laughter is known as the best medicine for a reason, and this is especially true for couples who are going through a difficult time. Laughter has been shown in studies to help release feel-good hormones that help relieve stress. As a result, it's critical for married couples to laugh together and share the same sense of humour whenever they find themselves in trouble.
b. Some people believe that sometimes crying is good for health. Do you believe it? Give your reasons.
Crying is a natural response to a wide range of emotions, including sadness, grief, joy, and frustration. Yes, I believe that crying is beneficial to one's health. Crying has been used for medicinal purposes since the Classical era.
According to ancient Greek and Roman philosophers and physicians, tears act as a laxative, draining and purifying us. Today's psychological thought largely agrees, emphasizing the role of crying as a release mechanism for stress and emotional pain. When we cry, we express a wide range of emotions, which allows our bodies and minds to reboot. Crying is especially important during times of bereavement. It may even aid in the processing and acceptance of a loved one's death. People frequently report feeling better after crying. This could be due to the fact that crying forces us to focus on what triggered us and work through our emotions and thoughts.
Crying can also help us understand what is important to us, especially if we cry about something that has surprised us. This means that crying is a necessary form of relief and, as such, is beneficial to one's health.
Writing Section
B. Write a description of your favourite comedian explaining his/her personality, acting, performance, and uniqueness.
Ellen DeGeneres
Ellen DeGeneres is a comedian, actress, writer, producer, and talk show host from the United States who has been entertaining audiences for over 40 years. Ellen was born on January 26, 1958, in Louisiana, and is widely regarded as one of the most powerful figures in the entertainment industry. Ellen's childhood was marred by tragedy and adversity.
Her parents divorced when she was young, and she struggled financially throughout her childhood. Her natural talent for comedy, combined with her unbreakable spirit, enabled her to rise above her circumstances. Ellen's stand-up comedy career began in the 1980s when she began performing in clubs and on television. Her relatable humor and contagious personality quickly established her as a fan favorite.
She debuted her own sitcom, "Ellen," in 1994, and made history when she came out as gay on the show, becoming television's first openly gay lead character. She hosted a successful daytime talk show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," after "Ellen" ended in 2003. Her show has received accolades for its uplifting and positive messages, as well as its entertaining and engaging format. Ellen's wit and charm have helped to make her show one of the most popular daytime shows on television.
Ellen is also well-known for her charitable efforts, such as her work with the Ellen DeGeneres Wildlife Fund and other charitable organizations. Her kindness and generosity have inspired countless people all over the world. Ellen has written, produced, and acted in a number of films and television shows throughout her career. Her dedication to her craft and commitment to excellence has made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, Ellen DeGeneres is a gifted and influential comedian who has been entertaining audiences for more than four decades. Her relatable humor, infectious personality, and dedication to kindness have made her a global role model.
Grammar Section
B. Put the frequency adverbs in the appropriate place and rewrite the following sentences.
a. I forget to do my homework. (sometimes)
Sometimes I forget to do my homework.
b. My father has touched an alcoholic drink in his life. (never)
My father has never touched an alcoholic drink in his life.
c. My father goes for a walk on Saturdays. (often)
My father often goes for a walk on Saturdays.
d. We go to the movie theatre. (occasionally)
We occasionally go to the movie theatre.
e. My brother is in America. He telephones us. (from time to time)
My brother is in America. He telephones us from time to time.
f. My mother gets up at five o’clock. (always)
My mother always gets up at five o’clock.
g. He does not like alcoholic drinks but takes some wine. (now and then)
He does not like alcoholic drinks, but now and then he takes some wine.
h. I drink my tea with milk. (generally)
Generally, I drink my tea with milk.
i. Have you been to Agra? (ever)
Have you ever been to Agra?
j. The restaurant hours vary as it is booked for special events. (frequently)
The restaurant's hours vary frequently as it is booked for special events.
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