Meaning of the word "a joke never gains an enemy, but often loses a friend" in English

What does "a joke never gains an enemy, but often loses a friend" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

a joke never gains an enemy, but often loses a friend

US /ə dʒoʊk ˈnɛvər ɡeɪnz ən ˈɛnəmi, bʌt ˈɔːfən ˈluːzəz ə frɛnd/
UK /ə dʒəʊk ˈnɛvə ɡeɪnz ən ˈɛnəmi, bʌt ˈɒfən ˈluːzɪz ə frɛnd/
"a joke never gains an enemy, but often loses a friend" picture

Phrase

a proverb suggesting that making fun of someone might be amusing, but it can permanently damage a friendship

Example:
Be careful with your sarcasm; remember that a joke never gains an enemy, but often loses a friend.
He thought he was being funny, but a joke never gains an enemy, but often loses a friend.