What quality must humor possess to be successful in communication?

Successful humor in communication must avoid being offensive or inappropriate because it needs to foster a positive connection with the audience. Humor that is perceived as offensive can alienate individuals, create discomfort, or provoke negative reactions, which detracts from the intended purpose of humor, which is to enhance engagement and build rapport. Humor serves as a social tool that can ease tension, promote camaraderie, and make messages more relatable, but it should always be within the bounds of respect and awareness of the audience’s perspectives and sensitivities. By ensuring that humor is appropriate, communicators can maintain a supportive environment where everyone feels included and valued.