a broad farce

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a broad farce" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or event that is exaggeratedly ridiculous or absurd, often in a humorous way. Example: "The political debate turned into a broad farce, with candidates resorting to childish insults instead of discussing real issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

After joining the producer Nancy Tannenbaum on the film, Ms. Rosenthal altered it from a broad farce to "more of a reality-based comedy," she says.

The New York Times

As early as November 1972, James Whitmore expressed a desire to leave Temperatures Rising, claiming that "the show is basically a broad farce and I didn't feel it was right for me".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Lost for Words" is, at times, entertaining about what St. Aubyn calls the "poison of comparison," symbolized by a corrupt literary prize, but his story — which started as a broader farce, and was reshaped after discussions with his agent and editors — can seem more disengaged than carefree.

The New Yorker

"As an actor, you have to bare your soul even if it's a big, broad farce.

Los Angeles Times

At my son's high school two weeks ago, Life took second billing to a showing of Home Alone, an entertaining piece of broad farce to be sure, but as obvious as a pimple on your chin, and really having little to do with the spirit of Christmas, beyond Macaulay Culkin's ditzy parents going on vacation, leaving him to frustrate and injure some improbably inept burglars.

Huffington Post

For my money Molina's final "It can happen here" speech is too swift and sparsely documented to have a lethal bite but the evening remains a splendid reminder that when broad farce and social protest combine, the offspring is a real cracker.

The Guardian

It's as if Mr. Allen had stored up a trunk full of choice one-liners that he's been cutting from screenplays or jotting down at random for years and has decided to unleash them all in this blizzard of broad farce set in a tacky love-nest motel room.

The New York Times

The problem here is that Mr. Richmond doesn't seem to have settled on a tone for the show, which waffles among broad farce, anachronistic sitcomesque jokiness and, particularly in the soliloquies of Cyrano himself (Anthony Cochrane), straightforwardly formal melodrama.

The New York Times

This broad farce is no big deal, but it has a cornpone-surreal quality and a rambunctious charm.

The New Yorker

Gloria Akalitus, the hospital manager, was a wonderful comedy villain to start with, but her role descended into broad farce.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It's an odd book: it lurches between registers, from earnest lyricism to broad farce, from persuasive psychological insight (some of the book is very moving) to swathes of ill-advised dialect and stereotype.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a broad farce" to describe situations that are excessively exaggerated and comedic, often involving physical humor or absurd scenarios. This phrase is particularly effective when highlighting the ridiculousness of a situation meant to be taken seriously.

Common error

Avoid using "a broad farce" in contexts that require a serious or somber tone. Its inherently comedic nature can undermine the gravity of the situation, making your writing seem inappropriate or insensitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a broad farce" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object to describe a particular type of comedic work or event. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is indeed correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a broad farce" is a noun phrase used to describe something excessively exaggerated and comedic. As Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, it's suitable for use in written English, especially in news and media contexts. While not a highly frequent phrase, it effectively conveys a specific type of humor characterized by absurdity and improbability. When using this phrase, remember to consider the context and avoid using it in situations that require a serious or somber tone. Alternatives like "an exaggerated comedy" or "a ridiculous spectacle" can provide similar meanings with slight variations in nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a farcical situation

Replaces the adjective "broad" with the adjective "farcical" keeping same meaning.

an exaggerated comedy

Emphasizes the over-the-top nature of the comedy.

a ridiculous spectacle

Highlights the absurdity and public display of the event.

a complete mockery

Focuses on the derisive and disrespectful nature of the situation.

an absurd charade

Implies a deceptive or insincere display.

a preposterous situation

Stresses the unbelievable and nonsensical aspect.

a ludicrous display

Highlights the foolish and unreasonable nature of the spectacle.

a comical travesty

Combines humor with a distorted or debased representation.

a grand jest

Emphasizes the magnitude and humorous intent of the joke.

an outrageous parody

Highlights the satirical and exaggerated imitation of the event.

FAQs

What does "a broad farce" mean?

The term "a broad farce" refers to a comedy that relies on exaggerated, improbable situations, physical humor, and often stereotypical characters for its comedic effect. It's a style known for its over-the-top and often ridiculous nature.

How can I use "a broad farce" in a sentence?

You can use "a broad farce" to describe a situation or performance. For instance, "The play was "a broad farce", with characters constantly tripping and falling."

What are some alternatives to saying "a broad farce"?

Alternatives include "an exaggerated comedy", "a ridiculous spectacle", or "an absurd charade", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a broad farce" the same as "a satire"?

No, while both can be comedic, a satire uses humor to critique societal issues, whereas "a broad farce" primarily aims to entertain through exaggerated and improbable situations, without necessarily offering social commentary. Satire has a more critical and analytical purpose, while "a broad farce" focuses on generating laughs through over-the-top scenarios.