There are a few things that can make slogans funny. Humor is usually based on the unexpected - the brain is thinking one thing and gets suddenly turned in another direction. So a funny slogan will get you thinking about something, then throw something unexpected at you.

Sound of the Words

Some words sound funnier than others. In English, usually hard sounds are funniest (see Cab is Funny section).  Examples of funny advertising slogans that use the sound of the words are:

• Koo Koo for Coco Puffs
• Beanz Meanz Heinz
• Snap! Crackle! Pop! - Rice Krispies

Puns

Puns are words that mean one thing, but conjure up another meaning. They make for funny slogans because they make a person think of dual meanings. Some examples of advertising slogans that use puns are:

• Are you a Cadbury's Fruit and Nut case? (Fruit and Nut is a type of candy bar)
• Keep Walking - Johnny Walker Whiskey
• Live to Loaf - Strongbow

New Twists on Common Sayings

Using a common saying in a new way can create a funny slogan. Part of the appeal is that the slogan represents something that everyone can relate to.  Some examples of this type of funny slogan are:

• Can you hear me now? - Verizon
• Wii would like to play - Nintendo

Self-Deprecating Humor

Self-deprecating humor is making fun of yourself or your product in a harmless way. An example of a funny slogan using self-deprecating humor is:

• We try harder. - Avis (in reference to second place status)
• I'd rather die of thirst than drink from the cup of mediocrity. - Stella Artois

Funny slogans can be effective advertising slogans because humor makes them memorable and the listener can often identify with the situation protrayed by the slogan.