a bark of laughter

USAGE SUMMARY

"a bark of laughter" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe unusually loud, uproarious laughter, often indicating that the person is laughing heartily or despite themselves. For example, "I couldn't help but let out a bark of laughter as I read the funny joke."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

He gave a bark of laughter.

The New Yorker

This elicited a bark of laughter from Ms. Garet.

The New York Times

That was exactly what it was like – 'When will this end?'" he agrees with a bark of laughter.

The Guardian - Film

"Ho ho HO!" Hanks makes such a bark of laughter that it nearly hurls him out of the armchair.

The Guardian - Film

Behind sunglasses, the feller gave a bark of laughter upon hearing that the pillow cost $395, then the familiar refrain of the Manhattan shopper: "Well, if you amortize it".

The New York Times

"I had never done a documentary before, so I met Fisher Stevens, who is an amazing documentary filmmaker, and he and I talked together about [directors] Bennett Miller and Kevin Macdonald, and we got them both," she says with a bark of laughter.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

But Kevin Brockman, Sweeney's right-hand man, gives a wry bark of laughter when I ask if she has a tough side, and Murdoch has called her 'an iron fist in a velvet glove'.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He gives an awkward bark of laughter and reaches for his tea.

The Guardian - Film

"I don't know if he understands me, but he lets me be me," she says with an endearing bark of laughter.

The New York Times

Another bark of laughter from a few rows up and it occurred to me that perhaps my sympathy was misplaced.

The New Yorker

Huge bark of laughter.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bark of laughter" when you want to convey a loud, abrupt, and possibly slightly uncouth or unrestrained expression of amusement. It's more impactful than simply saying someone laughed.

Common error

Avoid using "a bark of laughter" too frequently in your writing. While descriptive, its somewhat unusual nature can become distracting if overused. Opt for more common expressions of laughter for variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bark of laughter" functions as a noun phrase, specifically acting as the object of a verb (e.g., elicited, gave) or following a preposition. It describes the manner in which someone laughs, emphasizing the abrupt and loud nature of the sound. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bark of laughter" is a noun phrase used to describe a loud, abrupt, and unrestrained expression of amusement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. While not overly formal, its vivid imagery makes it suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. Related phrases include "a roar of laughter" and "a guffaw". When employing this phrase, consider its slightly informal tone and avoid overuse to maintain writing variety. The phrase effectively conveys a specific type of laughter, adding depth to descriptions. While used, keep in mind that the related term "a bark of laugh" is incorrect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a roar of laughter

Emphasizes the loudness and intensity of the laughter, similar to "bark".

a guffaw

Refers to a loud, boisterous laugh.

a loud burst of laughter

Focuses on the suddenness and volume of the laughter.

an explosive laugh

Highlights the sudden and forceful nature of the laughter.

a hearty laugh

Replaces the specific descriptor "bark" with a more general adjective indicating enthusiasm.

a peal of laughter

Uses a different metaphor to describe a ringing, bell-like sound of laughter.

a belly laugh

Indicates deep, unrestrained laughter originating from the abdomen.

a fit of giggles

Suggests uncontrolled, lighthearted laughter.

a snort of amusement

Indicates a brief, often involuntary, sound expressing amusement.

a chuckle

Describes a quiet, suppressed laugh.

FAQs

How can I use "a bark of laughter" in a sentence?

You can use "a bark of laughter" to describe a loud, abrupt, and often unrestrained expression of amusement. For example, "His joke was so bad, it elicited "a bark of laughter" from the audience".

What are some alternatives to "a bark of laughter"?

Some alternatives to "a bark of laughter" include "a roar of laughter", "a guffaw", or "a hearty laugh", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a bark of laughter" formal or informal?

"A bark of laughter" leans towards being slightly informal due to its metaphorical nature, but it is acceptable in many writing contexts, especially when aiming for a vivid description.

What does "a bark of laughter" imply about the person laughing?

"A bark of laughter" often implies that the person's laughter is loud, sudden, and perhaps a bit unrestrained or even slightly jarring. It suggests a strong, immediate reaction to something funny.