break into laughter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "break into laughter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the sudden onset of laughter, often in response to something funny or amusing. Example: "When she told the joke, the entire room broke into laughter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Both conference rooms break into laughter.

The New York Times - Tech

"He would wake up in the middle of the night and break into laughter.

The New Yorker

"We've been invited to some random weddings, of people we've only met once," says Berrabah, and the others break into laughter.

The Guardian - Music

Sebald went on, "While the reader may not feel inclined to break into laughter on the basis of the material presented to him, it rings out all the louder behind the scenes of the work".

The New Yorker

We watch to see that she steps off the property and then dash back in and upstairs to the bar, where we break into laughter and jump around holding each other.

The New York Times - Style

"One terrorist down!" says Michael, and they all break into laughter.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Both broke into laughter.

The New York Times

Everyone broke into laughter.

The New Yorker

The crowd broke into laughter, then applause.

The New York Times

The jurors broke into laughter.

The New York Times - Sports

To be honest, I broke into laughter.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "break into laughter" to vividly describe a spontaneous and often unexpected reaction to something funny or amusing. It adds a sense of immediacy to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "break into laughter" in serious or somber situations where laughter would be considered disrespectful or out of place. Ensure the context aligns with the lighthearted nature of the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "break into laughter" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as the predicate of a sentence. According to Ludwig, this phrase describes a sudden and spontaneous onset of laughter. The examples show its use in narrating reactions to jokes or absurd situations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "break into laughter" is a verb phrase used to describe a sudden and spontaneous expression of amusement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides diverse examples of its usage across various sources. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, with a neutral register that makes it suitable for a wide range of contexts. While less frequent than some alternatives, it provides a vivid and immediate depiction of laughter. Consider alternatives like "burst out laughing" or "erupt in laughter" for similar meanings. Avoid using the phrase in contexts where laughter would be inappropriate. Its precise and descriptive nature renders it a valuable tool for any writer.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

burst out laughing

Emphasizes the sudden and forceful nature of the laughter.

erupt in laughter

Suggests a more explosive and unrestrained outbreak of laughter.

roar with laughter

Indicates loud, boisterous laughter.

howl with mirth

Suggests loud and unrestrained laughter expressing great amusement.

dissolve into laughter

Emphasizes the gradual transition into a state of laughter.

crack up

A more informal way of saying someone starts laughing suddenly.

collapse in laughter

Highlights the physical impact of the laughter, as if one is overcome by it.

giggle uncontrollably

Suggests nervous or childish laughter that is hard to stop.

chuckle audibly

Implies a quieter, more contained expression of amusement.

begin to laugh heartily

Describes the commencement of genuine, joyful laughter.

FAQs

How to use "break into laughter" in a sentence?

You can use "break into laughter" to describe a sudden outburst of laughter in response to something humorous. For example, "The comedian's joke was so funny that the audience "broke into laughter"."

What can I say instead of "break into laughter"?

You can use alternatives like "burst out laughing", "erupt in laughter", or "roar with laughter" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "break in laughter" instead of "break into laughter"?

No, the correct phrase is "break into laughter". The preposition "into" is essential for conveying the meaning of a sudden transition to laughter.

What's the difference between "chuckle" and "break into laughter"?

"Chuckle" implies a quiet, subdued laugh, while "break into laughter" suggests a sudden, more explosive outburst of laughter. One is quiet and the other is sudden.