a travesty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a travesty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or event that is grossly unfair, distorted, or a mockery of what is right or just. Example: "The decision to deny her a fair trial was a travesty of justice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was a travesty.

The New York Times

It is a travesty.

The Guardian - Sport

The Fed's a travesty.

The Economist

It's a travesty".

The New York Times

That is a travesty.

The New York Times

"It's a travesty," he said.

The New York Times

I think that's a travesty".

The New York Times

This case is a travesty.

The New York Times

A travesty destroying college sports.

The New York Times

That would be a travesty.

The New York Times

A travesty of justice.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a travesty" to express strong disapproval or outrage, ensuring the gravity of the situation warrants such strong language.

Common error

Avoid using "a travesty" to describe minor issues or inconveniences. This dilutes its impact and can make your writing sound hyperbolic and insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a travesty" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object complement. It expresses a strong negative evaluation, indicating that something is a debasement or distortion of what it should be. This aligns with Ludwig AI examples showing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a travesty" is a noun phrase used to express strong disapproval of something that is a distorted or debased representation of what it should be. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically sound and frequently used, especially in news and media contexts. When writing, be mindful to reserve it for situations where a severe deviation from justice or fairness is evident, avoiding overuse in trivial contexts. Alternatives such as "a mockery" or "an outrage" may be suitable depending on the nuance you wish to convey. As Ludwig AI suggests, its consistent application across authoritative sources underscores its validity and widespread understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a travesty of justice

Specifically highlights the miscarriage or corruption of the legal system.

a mockery

Focuses on the act of ridiculing or making something seem absurd and unworthy of respect.

a farce

Emphasizes the ridiculous and chaotic nature of a situation, often implying incompetence or absurdity.

a gross injustice

Highlights the severe unfairness and inequity of a situation.

an outrage

Highlights the shocking and morally offensive nature of an event or situation.

a distortion

Focuses on the alteration or misrepresentation of facts or reality.

a perversion

Emphasizes the corruption or deviation from what is considered pure or correct.

a sham

Suggests that something is fake or deceptive, lacking authenticity or value.

a disgrace

Highlights the shameful or dishonorable nature of something.

a lamentable situation

Indicates a regrettable and unfortunate state of affairs.

FAQs

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

Use "a travesty" to describe something that is a shocking and unacceptable representation of something else. For example, "The trial was "a travesty" of justice."

What are some alternatives to "a travesty"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a mockery", "a farce", or "an outrage".

Is it appropriate to use "a travesty" in formal writing?

Yes, "a travesty" can be used in formal writing when describing a situation that is a serious distortion or perversion of something. However, ensure that the tone and context warrant such a strong expression.

What is the difference between "a travesty" and "a parody"?

"A travesty" describes something that is a debased or distorted representation, often causing outrage, while "a parody" is an imitation of something, often for humorous effect or ridicule.