brittle laughter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "brittle laughter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe laughter that sounds fragile or forced, often indicating discomfort or nervousness. Example: "Her brittle laughter filled the room, masking the tension that hung in the air."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Dry humour raises brittle laughter.

The Guardian

In a conversation that was punctuated with brittle laughter, he said he would return to politics even if he were sentenced to a prison term.

The New York Times

Under the low ceiling, even in the brick-walled room at the very back, the sounds of merriment seem strangely close, as if each peal of brittle laughter, each gleefully spilled secret, were directed toward your own ready ear.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

People think of him as "brittle and glittery" when his plays have "so much depth and vulnerability and as much pain as laughter".

The Guardian

Best known for her interpretations of brittle, stylish women (Julia in A. R. Gurney's "Far East," the Broadway revival of Coward's "Present Laughter), this incisive actress sheds her customary poise and wryness.

The New York Times

Quasicrystals are exceptionally brittle.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Enforced stability is brittle.

The New Yorker

It could prove brittle.

The Economist

But relations are brittle.

The Economist

BANKS are brittle institutions.

The Economist

But redemption is brittle.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a social situation, "brittle laughter" can signal underlying tension or awkwardness, indicating that things are not as lighthearted as they seem on the surface. This can heighten suspense or create a sense of unease in the narrative.

Common error

Avoid using "brittle laughter" when you intend to describe genuine, joyful laughter. The phrase carries a connotation of forced amusement or underlying discomfort, so ensure it aligns with the intended emotional context. If the laughter is meant to be sincere and heartfelt, opt for alternatives like "hearty laughter" or "infectious laughter".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "brittle laughter" functions primarily as a descriptive expression, where the adjective "brittle" modifies the noun "laughter". Ludwig AI confirms the phrase’s correct usage in describing a specific quality of laughter, indicating its strained or insincere nature, as demonstrated in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "brittle laughter" is a phrase used to describe laughter that sounds strained, forced, or insincere. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, though its occurrence is relatively rare. It is predominantly used in news and media contexts to convey underlying tension or discomfort, rather than genuine amusement. When using this phrase, it's essential to ensure it accurately reflects the intended emotional context, distinguishing it from sincere or joyful expressions of laughter. Alternatives like "forced laughter" or "nervous laughter" might be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to express.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forced laughter

Emphasizes the lack of genuineness and the effort involved in producing the laughter.

nervous laughter

Highlights the anxiety or unease underlying the laughter.

strained laughter

Focuses on the tension and lack of ease in the laughter.

hollow laughter

Suggests the emptiness or lack of genuine amusement in the laughter.

artificial laughter

Implies that the laughter is fake or manufactured.

insincere laughter

Directly points out the lack of sincerity behind the laughter.

uncomfortable laughter

Highlights the awkwardness or discomfort associated with the laughter.

icy laughter

Conveys a sense of coldness or distance in the laughter.

weak laughter

Indicates the laughter is feeble and lacks strength or conviction.

shallow laughter

Suggests the laughter is superficial and lacks depth or meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "brittle laughter" in a sentence?

"Brittle laughter" is used to describe a type of laughter that sounds forced, strained, or insincere. For example: "Her brittle laughter barely concealed her nervousness during the presentation." or "The comedian's joke was met with brittle laughter from the audience."

What are some alternatives to "brittle laughter"?

Alternatives to "brittle laughter" include "forced laughter", "nervous laughter", or "strained laughter". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does "brittle laughter" imply about a character's emotions?

"Brittle laughter" typically indicates that the character is experiencing discomfort, anxiety, or sadness, and is attempting to conceal these emotions behind a façade of amusement. It suggests a lack of genuine joy.

Is "brittle laughter" the same as "nervous laughter"?

While both phrases describe laughter that is not entirely genuine, "nervous laughter" specifically highlights anxiety or unease, while "brittle laughter" can also imply a more general sense of strain, insincerity, or underlying sadness. It's a broader term.