10 Good And Bad Types Of Humor People Use With Friends Or In A Relationship

Did you know there are many different kinds of humor—and not all of them are good for your relationship?

A good sense of humor is a wonderful quality, but the wrong type of humor can do more harm than good—especially when you don’t know where to draw the line.

You might think you’re hilarious and the life of the party, but could your humor be unintentionally annoying or even pushing your partner away?

The Good Types of Humor

Certain kinds of humor help couples feel more connected. With the right kind of laughter, there’s no judgment, no need to be guarded—just joy and ease. And let’s be honest, humor can add spark to your conversations and deepen your bond.

Here are 5 kinds of good humor that can bring you closer as a couple:

# Self-deprecating humor

This is when you joke about your own quirks or mistakes. It shows you're humble, open, and okay with being imperfect. It lightens the mood and prevents tension after a goof-up, making your partner feel safe and not blamed.

# Bitchy humor

Venting about an annoying friend or a TV show you both hate? These sharp, shared complaints—though a bit mean—can be oddly bonding if you’re on the same page. Gossiping together (without malice) can spark fun conversations and create “us vs. them” moments that draw you closer.

# Practical humor

Playful pranks and harmless mischief can keep things youthful and spontaneous. As long as your partner has a fun-loving side and forgives easily, these little surprises can bring bursts of laughter that you’ll remember for years.

# Childish humor

It’s goofy, silly, and a little ridiculous—but that’s the point. Think silly nicknames, playful butt smacks, or water sprinkles while your partner’s dozing. As long as it’s harmless and mutual, this kind of humor is pure, silly fun.

# Situational humor

This involves turning awkward or tense moments into something funny. Whether it’s laughing off a wardrobe malfunction or lightening an embarrassing moment in public, this kind of humor builds support and a sense of “we’re in this together.”

The Bad Types of Humor

On the flip side, some types of humor can create distance and resentment. Instead of bringing you closer, they put up emotional walls. These are the ones to watch out for in a relationship:

# Sarcasm

Sarcasm often slips in when you're irritated. It’s a way to mask anger while still delivering a jab. But in a relationship, sarcasm can leave your partner feeling bitter or helpless because they can’t respond seriously to a "joke."

That said, sarcasm can work as an inside joke—if you both share the same wavelength. Just be careful, because the line between playful and hurtful is razor-thin.

# Insulting humor

Poking fun at your partner’s family, background, or past mistakes—no matter how jokingly—is a bad move. Even if you’re "just kidding," these comments can leave lasting emotional bruises.

# Cocky humor

Confidence is great, but constant self-praise wrapped in humor? Not so much. Responding to your partner’s questions with lines like, “Well, you’re with me, of course you look good!” can get old fast. Used sparingly, it’s charming. Overused, it becomes grating.

# Flawed humor

Trying to point out your partner’s flaws under the guise of a joke? It often stings more than direct feedback. They might feel criticized but can’t respond, since “you were only joking.” If something bothers you, speak up honestly—not comically.

# Picky humor

Teaming up with others to tease your partner—especially in front of friends—can feel like ganging up. Even if you’re just joking, it can feel like bullying. For instance, don’t keep roasting your partner about that one “ugly” shirt they wore just because someone else laughed once. That kind of humor chips away at their confidence.