serio-comic

A character in a play delivers a serio-comic monologue.

Definition

Adjective: Combining serious and comic elements; having both a serious and a humorous character.

Usage Examples

Advanced Usage

• "serio-comic style": A mode of expression that blends gravity with levity, often used in literature, theatre, or satire.
  • The author's serio-comic style in the novel allowed for social critique without becoming overly heavy.

Variants and Related Words

• Serio-comically (adverb): In a manner that is both serious and comic.
  • He spoke serio-comically about his failed business venture, mixing regret with self-deprecating humour.

Synonyms

• Tragicomic: Combining tragic and comic elements.
• Bittersweet: Having a mixture of sadness and happiness.
• Satirical: Using humour to criticize or mock serious subjects.

Related Idioms

• Half in jest, half in earnest: Said or done with both humour and sincerity.
  • Her remark was half in jest, half in earnest, a perfect serio-comic moment.