Passage: Tom was chatting with his friend at the café when the topic turned to career changes. “I used to be a baker,” he said with a grin, “but I couldn’t make enough dough.” His friend chuckled, “Well, at least you kneaded a change!”

Question

Can you explain why the phrase “I couldn’t make enough dough” and “kneaded a change” would be considered a pun? Explain briefly.

Answer 1

The phrases “I couldn’t make enough dough” and “kneaded a change” are considered puns because they play on the double meanings of the words "dough" and "kneaded."

1. Dough: In the context of baking, "dough" refers to the mixture used to make bread and pastries. However, "dough" is also a slang term for money. Tom's statement implies that he was not making sufficient money while being a baker.

2. Kneaded: The word "kneaded" refers to the process of working dough into a desired consistency in baking. At the same time, it sounds like "needed," which pertains to wanting or requiring a change in his career.

These clever wordplays create humor by linking the baking profession with financial issues and the necessity for a career transition, making them a classic example of a pun.