a big laugh

USAGE SUMMARY

'a big laugh' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe a hearty, robust laugh. For example, "The comedian's silly joke elicited a big laugh from the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That got a big laugh.

The New York Times - Sports

They had a big laugh.

The New Yorker

He laughed a big laugh.

The New York Times

He drew a big laugh.

The New York Times - Sports

It's not a big laugh".

The New York Times - Magazine

We had a big laugh".

The New York Times

It always got a big laugh.

The New York Times

He lets out a big laugh.

The Guardian

"Then they all had a big laugh.

The Guardian

"I'm not going for a big laugh.

The Guardian - Arts

These remarks earned him a big laugh.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a big laugh" to describe a genuinely humorous or amusing situation. It implies that something was particularly funny or well-received.

Common error

While "a big laugh" is a common expression, avoid using it excessively in your writing. Vary your descriptions of laughter with alternatives like "hearty laugh" or "burst of laughter" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big laugh" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb. It describes the act of laughing in response to something humorous, signifying the intensity and audibility of the laughter. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big laugh" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a situation where something humorous elicits a strong, audible reaction. Ludwig AI validates this usage, highlighting its prevalence in news and media. While versatile, it's advisable to avoid overuse and consider alternatives like "a hearty laugh" or "a roar of laughter" for varied expression. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a genuinely funny moment, and be mindful of the context to avoid excessive repetition. The phrase functions primarily as a noun phrase, emphasizing the intensity of the laughter.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hearty laugh

This alternative emphasizes the genuine and vigorous nature of the laugh.

a loud guffaw

This alternative suggests a boisterous and unrestrained laugh.

a burst of laughter

This alternative focuses on the sudden release of laughter.

a roar of laughter

This alternative conveys a loud and sustained expression of amusement.

a fit of giggles

This alternative describes uncontrollable, light laughter.

a peal of laughter

This alternative suggests a clear, ringing sound of laughter.

a ripple of laughter

This alternative implies a gentle and spreading sound of amusement.

explosions of laughter

Highlights the sudden and forceful nature of the laughter.

waves of laughter

This alternative emphasizes the spreading and overwhelming nature of the laughter.

uproarious laughter

This alternative indicates extremely loud and energetic laughter.

FAQs

How can I use "a big laugh" in a sentence?

You can use "a big laugh" to describe a situation that evokes strong amusement. For example, "The comedian's joke earned him a big laugh from the audience."

What's a good alternative to "a big laugh"?

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

Is it appropriate to use "a big laugh" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the context. In very formal writing, more precise descriptions of laughter might be preferable. However, in most news or general writing, "a big laugh" is perfectly suitable.

What does it mean when someone gets "a big laugh"?

It means that something they said or did was found to be very funny by others, resulting in significant and audible laughter from the audience or group.