a laughingstock

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a laughingstock" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is the subject of ridicule or mockery. Example: "After his embarrassing performance, he became a laughingstock among his peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

It became a laughingstock.

The New York Times

He became a laughingstock.

The New York Times - Sports

We're a laughingstock".

The New Yorker

"Now we're just a laughingstock".

The New York Times - Sports

The country is a "laughingstock".

The New York Times - Books

We're a laughingstock in China.

The New Yorker

You've made him a laughingstock!

The New Yorker

"It's kind of a laughingstock".

The New York Times

But they have never been a laughingstock.

The New York Times

One marshal called it "a laughingstock".

The New York Times

"It makes Chicago look like a laughingstock.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To strengthen your writing, consider using "a laughingstock" when you want to convey the sense of severe public ridicule and the loss of respect, ensuring that your message is both clear and impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "a laughingstock" in overly serious or sensitive contexts where a more nuanced or respectful term is appropriate. The phrase can be perceived as harsh and dismissive, undermining the intended message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a laughingstock" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a predicate nominative or object complement. It describes someone or something that has become an object of ridicule or mockery. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a laughingstock" is a noun phrase used to describe someone or something that has become an object of public ridicule. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, with examples found across diverse sources, most commonly in News & Media. While versatile, it's crucial to consider the context and audience when employing this phrase, as it can be seen as harsh. Alternatives such as "a figure of ridicule" or "the butt of jokes" may be more appropriate in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a figure of ridicule

Emphasizes the act of ridiculing someone, portraying them as a target of mockery.

the butt of jokes

Highlights the experience of being the target of jokes, often implying a lack of respect.

an object of scorn

Focuses on the contempt and disdain directed towards someone or something.

a subject of derision

Stresses the act of mocking and ridiculing, often in a public or formal setting.

a mockery

Implies that something is a poor imitation or a travesty of what it should be, leading to ridicule.

a disgrace

Highlights the shame and dishonor associated with someone or something.

an embarrassment

Focuses on the feeling of shame and awkwardness caused by someone or something.

a clown

Compares someone to a clown, suggesting foolishness and a lack of seriousness.

a joke

Implies that someone or something is not taken seriously and is seen as amusing or ridiculous.

a fool

Suggests a lack of intelligence or good judgment, leading to ridicule.

FAQs

How can I use "a laughingstock" in a sentence?

You can use "a laughingstock" to describe someone or something that is the object of ridicule. For example, "After the disastrous performance, the team became "a laughingstock"."

What are some alternatives to "a laughingstock"?

Alternatives include "a figure of ridicule", "the butt of jokes", or "an object of scorn" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "a laughingstock"?

It is appropriate when describing situations or individuals who have become objects of public ridicule due to their actions or failures. However, use it judiciously to avoid causing unnecessary offense.

What makes something or someone "a laughingstock"?

Typically, it involves a significant failure, embarrassing action, or perceived incompetence that leads to widespread ridicule and loss of respect.