Generating the big laughs

Friends scriptwriters methods for creating laughter make the often hidden conventions of language-use visible.

In one episode, an invitation is turned down, but without giving an expected reason. Joey asks Phoebe if she'd like to help build furniture. Phoebe opens with a negative reply but then does the surprising. "Ohh! I wish I could, but I don't want to." And the audience erupts in laughter.

Creating humour this way, as well as through misunderstandings, can keep us laughing.

The conversational rules for a successful invitation depend on:

• who we're asking,
• what kind of relationship we have
• what's at stake
• how important an acceptance is.

The preferred response to a request is acceptance, and the best way to ensure a...