clever banter
Sharp verbal sparring
Clever banter is witty, playful exchange between people—quick remarks that demonstrate intelligence and verbal agility.
The phrase emphasizes the sharpness of the back-and-forth rather than mere friendliness: Their clever banter kept the whole table entertained.
It suggests mutual enjoyment and often a bit of showing off.
- wittyCleverly humorous
- reparteeQuick, clever conversation
- bon motClever, memorable remark
- quipBrief, clever remark
- sparringPractice combat training
quick wit · verbal sparring · war of words · battle of wits · wordplay · flirtation · teasing · sharp · sharp tongue · quick · verbal · exchange · back and forth · playful · sarcasm · retort · zingers · charming
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