Bromas

Bromas are jokes, pranks, or humorous acts performed to amuse others. In Spanish, the term broma covers verbal witticisms, practical jokes, and humorous situations. Bromas can be spontaneous or planned in advance and may occur in everyday conversations as well as in entertainment media.

Types of bromas include verbal forms such as puns, one-liners, or tall tales, and situational forms such as practical jokes that rely on misdirection or surprise. The term often distinguishes between a simple joke (chiste) and a prank (broma) used to deceive temporarily. Online platforms also host bromas in the form of prank videos, memes, and coordinated stunts.

Usage and reception: Bromas are widely used to ease social interaction, build rapport, or provoke laughter. Reactions vary with audience, context, and consent; bromas that target protected groups or cause harm can be inappropriate or abusive and may have social or legal consequences.

Cultural context and variation: The acceptability and style of bromas differ across languages and cultures, reflecting local norms about humor, privacy, and safety. Some traditions emphasize playful, lighthearted humor, while others discourage deception or embarrassment.

See also: Broma (singular), bromista (a person who plays pranks), humor, prank.