Example of Banter:
Setting: Two friends, Sarah and John, are waiting in line for coffee.
Sarah: "Ugh, this line is moving slower than a sloth on a diet."
John: "Maybe if you weren't staring so intently at that croissant you'd move faster."
Sarah: "Hey, I'm just trying to choose the perfect pastry to go with my coffee. You know, like a sophisticated coffee connoisseur."
John: "Right, because coffee and croissants are so sophisticated. I think I'll stick to my black coffee and a bagel, thanks."
Sarah: "Oh, so you're a simple man. Just like your taste in jokes, I see."
John: "At least my jokes are funnier than your attempts at sophisticated."
Sarah: "Touché. But at least I don't have a bagel-shaped head."
John: "Hey, I'll have you know that's a very stylish head shape."
Sarah: "Sure, sure. Just tell yourself that. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to make sure that croissant is still there."
John: "Good luck! Maybe they'll have one for me too."
Sarah: "Don't count on it. You'll be lucky to get a coffee before it runs out."
John: "Ha, very funny. You're just jealous of my superior coffee taste."
Sarah: "Oh, I'm sure your coffee is delicious. Just like those jokes you keep telling me."
John: "See, you're getting it now! I knew you'd appreciate my dry humor."
(They both laugh and continue to banter back and forth as they wait in line.)
This example demonstrates how banter can be playful, light-hearted, and often involves teasing and playful insults. It also shows how it can be used to build rapport and create a sense of connection between people.