a request for laughter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a request for laughter" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking someone to laugh or when you are indicating that something is intended to be humorous. Example: "The comedian's performance was so engaging that it felt like a request for laughter from the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Yet it never replaces a request for laughter with a request for pity.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Frisk declined a request for an interview.

The New York Times - Sports

A request for a photo was declined.

The New York Times

He declined a request for an interview.

The New York Times

(Mr. Mitchell declined a request for comment).

The New York Times - Arts

The National Basketball Players Association declined a request for comment.

The New York Times - Sports

(He declined a request for comment).

The New York Times

They were a request for days off.

The New York Times

Appeals and a request for clemency failed.

Independent

Then comes a request for money.

The New York Times - Tech

Mr. Stark declined a request for comment.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a request for laughter", ensure the context clearly indicates that you're looking for humor, not necessarily demanding audible laughter. It can imply an invitation to a lighthearted approach or perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "a request for laughter" in serious or somber situations, as it can come across as inappropriate or insensitive. Ensure the context warrants humor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a request for laughter" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It serves as the subject or object within a sentence, expressing the act of asking for or inviting humor. As Ludwig points out, it's a correct and usable phrase, indicating its grammatical validity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a request for laughter" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a desire or invitation for humor. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. While relatively rare, it is appropriate in various contexts, particularly News & Media and general writing. The tone and specific nuance, however, should always align with the setting. Consider alternatives like "an invitation to laugh" if a different shade of meaning is required. Use it mindfully to create a lighthearted atmosphere.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an invitation to laugh

Emphasizes the welcoming and encouraging aspect of creating a humorous moment.

a call for merriment

Replaces "laughter" with "merriment", suggesting a joyful and festive atmosphere.

a plea for humor

Substitutes "laughter" with "humor", highlighting the desire for something amusing.

seeking amusement

Focuses on the act of looking for something to cause laughter, rather than directly requesting laughter itself.

desiring levity

Replaces the concrete "laughter" with the more abstract "levity", referring to a lighthearted mood.

a yearning for comedy

Replaces "laughter" with "comedy", shifting the focus to the genre or form intended to produce laughter.

soliciting smiles

Uses "smiles" instead of "laughter", indicating a less intense form of amusement.

inciting chuckles

Replaces "laughter" with "chuckles", suggesting a quieter, more subdued reaction.

aiming for joviality

Focuses on the intention to create a cheerful and friendly atmosphere, where laughter is a likely outcome.

encouraging lightheartedness

Shifts the emphasis to the creation of a general atmosphere of cheerfulness and ease, with laughter as a potential result.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a request for laughter" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "an appeal for levity", "an invitation to humor", or "a call for a more lighthearted approach". These options maintain the essence of the request while adopting a more refined tone.

When is it appropriate to use "a request for laughter"?

This phrase is best suited for situations where you want to introduce humor or lighten the mood, such as during a presentation, a casual conversation, or in creative writing. It signals an intent to create a fun or amusing atmosphere.

What's the difference between "a request for laughter" and "a demand for laughter"?

"A request for laughter" implies a gentle invitation or suggestion for humor, whereas "a demand for laughter" suggests an authoritative expectation or forceful command, which is rarely appropriate or well-received. The former seeks willing participation, while the latter attempts to compel it.

Are there synonyms for "a request for laughter" that I can use to avoid repetition?

Yes, alternatives include "an "invitation to laugh"", "a plea for humor", or "seeking amusement". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.