Understanding the Difference Between Gibe and Jibe

Gibe vs. Jibe

The words gibe and jibe may sound the same, but they have different meanings and uses. Let’s find out what each word means and how to use them.

History

The word gibe comes from the Old French word “giber,” which means to handle roughly or to mock. It is used in English to mean teasing or making fun of someone.

The word jibe comes from the nautical term for a maneuvering method in sailing. In English, it is often used to mean agreeing or going along with something.

How to Use Them

Gibe

Gibe is used to describe teasing or mocking. When someone says unkind or mocking words, they are giving a gibe.

Example Sentences with “Gibe”:

• He couldn’t ignore the gibe from his friends about his new haircut.
• She tried to laugh off the gibe about her singing voice.
• The crowd’s gibes didn’t bother him during his speech.
• His unfair gibe made her feel sad.
• The brothers love to gibe each other during sports.

Jibe

Jibe is used to describe agreement or matching up with something. When things jibe, they agree or fit together well.

Example Sentences with “Jibe”:

• His story does not jibe with the facts.
• The two reports do not jibe, so we need to check them again.
• The new plans jibe perfectly with the company’s goals.
• Her opinion jibes with mine on this matter.
• The findings jibe with what we expected to see.

Trick to Remember the Difference

To remember gibe, think “G” for “giggle” or “grin,” since it is about teasing, which can make people laugh (kindly or unkindly).

For jibe, think “J” for “join” or “jigsaw,” since it often means fitting together or agreeing.

Summary

Use gibe when you talk about teasing or mocking someone. Use jibe when you want to say that things agree or fit together. Remembering the initial letters can help you choose the right word.