Subject of mockery

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Subject of mockery" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is ridiculed or made fun of by others. Example: "His unusual fashion choices made him the subject of mockery among his peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

His promise to plant a million trees has been the subject of mockery.

The New York Times

This quest for fine-tuned individuality has often been the subject of mockery in the cities where it occurs.

The Guardian

Yet somehow, a pitcher capable of out-toughing Clemens in hostile territory became the subject of mockery a couple of seasons later.

The New York Times - Sports

Lars is a difficult, maybe impossible character, a holy fool and a martyr in waiting, a subject of mockery and a means of redemption.

The New York Times

Warner's recall for this match made him the subject of mockery and mirth among the Old Trafford crowd, but – at least until now – he has managed to take it in his stride and accept the abuse with a smile.

Independent

The N.F.L., every bit the Colossus in its realm as I was in mine, is now the subject of mockery, a position familiar to yours truly, once the most loved and most loathed sportscaster in America.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Once trans people were the subject of unjust mockery.

The Guardian

The 34-year-old became the subject of worldwide mockery and was bombarded with interview requests.

The Guardian

This last line has justifiably been the subject of some mockery since it was released on Tuesday afternoon.

The Washington Post

Burning Man, the subject of much mockery and debate, has a self-described spirit of "radical self-reliance" and, more recently, techno-utopianism.

The New Yorker

Of course, Mr. de Villepin is already the subject of some mockery in a popular comic novel, "Quai d'Orsay," about his time as Mr. Chirac's poetry-composing, Napoleon-enamored foreign minister, here known as Alexandre Taillard de Vorms.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "subject of mockery", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is doing the mocking and why. Provide enough information for the reader to understand the situation and the reasons behind the ridicule.

Common error

Avoid using "subject of mockery" when the target is unclear. Ensure that it's evident who or what is being ridiculed to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subject of mockery" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes something or someone that is being ridiculed, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "subject of mockery" is a noun phrase used to describe someone or something being ridiculed. Ludwig AI analysis indicates it is grammatically correct and most frequently found in news and media contexts. While not overly formal, it is a neutral term used to convey criticism or disapproval. Alternative phrases include "object of ridicule" and "target of derision". When using this phrase, clarity is key to ensure the reader understands who or what is being ridiculed and why.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Object of ridicule

Focuses more on the act of ridicule itself.

Victim of ridicule

Highlights the negative impact of the mockery.

Target of derision

Emphasizes strong contempt and scorn.

Butt of jokes

Highlights the comedic aspect of being mocked.

Mark for scorn

Emphasizes the contempt directed at the subject.

Laughingstock

Implies widespread public ridicule.

Prey to taunts

Focuses on the harassing nature of the mockery.

Figure of fun

Suggests a less malicious, more lighthearted form of mockery.

Source of amusement

Similar to "figure of fun", but can imply a more detached amusement.

A figure of contempt

The phrase places more emphasis on the feeling towards them.

FAQs

How can I use "subject of mockery" in a sentence?

The phrase "subject of mockery" is used to describe someone or something that is being ridiculed or made fun of. For example, "His unusual fashion choices made him the "subject of mockery" among his peers."

What's a more formal alternative to "subject of mockery"?

A more formal alternative to "subject of mockery" could be "object of ridicule" or "target of derision", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to be the "subject of mockery"?

While generally negative, being the "subject of mockery" can sometimes be used for comedic effect or self-deprecation. However, it usually implies a lack of respect or serious criticism.

What's the difference between "subject of mockery" and "laughingstock"?

"Subject of mockery" describes the state of being ridiculed, while "laughingstock" refers to someone who is widely ridiculed. A person can be the "subject of mockery" without necessarily becoming a "laughingstock", if the ridicule is not widespread.