approaching the preposterous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "approaching the preposterous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, idea, or argument that is becoming increasingly absurd or ridiculous. Example: "His explanation for the sudden disappearance of the funds was approaching the preposterous, leaving everyone in disbelief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The preposterous Free Syrian Army FSAArmy FSA

Independent

TR sorts the possible form the preposterous.

MIT Technology Review

Sympathy for the preposterous Mr. Kane survives.

The New Yorker

But the preposterous charges never went away.

The New York Times

The preposterous storylines will roll on.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This is the preposterous Broadway version of a writing class.

The New Yorker

From the "Preposterous Headline" Dept: This looks like fun.

TechCrunch

The board's approach is preposterous and certainly defies its vaunted "transparency". Seeking public input after a decision is made is as anti-transparent as it gets.

Los Angeles Times

The most preposterous claims coming from Treasury revolve around the estate tax.

Harvard University

Is the book preposterous?

The New York Times

A Philadelphia newspaper called the idea preposterous.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "approaching the preposterous" to describe situations where a series of events or explanations incrementally lose credibility, culminating in near-absurdity.

Common error

While "approaching the preposterous" is grammatically correct, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Consider more precise and less colorful alternatives if appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "approaching the preposterous" functions as a modifier, often describing a noun or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English to depict an idea or argument that is progressively becoming more absurd.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

33%

Encyclopedias

32%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "approaching the preposterous" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe situations or ideas that are becoming increasingly absurd or unbelievable. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's relatively rare and more suitable for neutral to slightly informal contexts. Consider alternatives like "bordering on the absurd" or "nearing the ridiculous" for formal writing. The phrase is commonly found in News & Media, Academia, and Encyclopedias.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bordering on the absurd

Focuses on the transition to absurdity, highlighting the slight shift into illogical territory.

nearing the ridiculous

Emphasizes the progression towards a state of being laughable or silly.

verging on the unbelievable

Highlights the increasing difficulty in accepting something as true or plausible.

becoming increasingly far-fetched

Stresses the growing implausibility and artificiality of a situation or idea.

inching towards the ludicrous

Implies a gradual movement towards something laughable or deserving of scorn.

on the cusp of absurdity

Suggests being at the very edge of becoming completely absurd.

developing into the nonsensical

Highlights the evolving transformation into something that lacks sense or reason.

evolving into the outlandish

Focuses on the gradual shift towards something bizarre or unconventional.

heading toward the outrageous

Suggests a trajectory towards something shocking or unacceptable.

leaning towards the irrational

Implies a drift towards a lack of reason or logical thought.

FAQs

How can I use "approaching the preposterous" in a sentence?

You can use "approaching the preposterous" to describe an idea, story, or situation that is becoming increasingly unbelievable or absurd. For example, "His excuse for being late was "approaching the preposterous"."

What are some alternatives to "approaching the preposterous"?

Alternatives include "bordering on the absurd", "nearing the ridiculous", or "verging on the unbelievable", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "approaching the preposterous" formal or informal?

"Approaching the preposterous" has a slightly informal tone. While grammatically correct, it might be better to use a more neutral term in formal writing.

What is the difference between "approaching the preposterous" and "being preposterous"?

"Approaching the preposterous" suggests a gradual transition towards absurdity, whereas "being preposterous" indicates a state of complete and utter absurdity. The first implies a process, while the second describes a condition.