butt of farce

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "butt of farce" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is the target of ridicule or mockery in a humorous context. Example: "In the play, the character became the butt of farce, as his clumsy attempts to impress the audience only led to laughter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In her heyday would Kate Moss have allowed herself to become the butt of farce?

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

We said usual level of farce.

The New York Times - Sports

Its failings are the stuff of farce.

The Guardian

Then, a moment of farce.

The Guardian - Sport

Resentment visited on promoter of farce, George S. Rappleyea.

The New Yorker

It's the stuff of farce.

The Guardian - Opinion

There are other overtones of farce.

The New York Times - Arts

Praying at the shrine of farce.

The New York Times - Magazine

A native form of farce was also revived.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And no bleating about the cruelty of farce, please.

The New Yorker

Then, it captured an air of farce and uneasy anger.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "object of ridicule" or "target of mockery" if the situation doesn't involve overt theatricality or absurdity.

Common error

Avoid using "butt of farce" when the situation involves serious criticism or genuine suffering. The term implies a level of absurdity and humor that is inappropriate in grave contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "butt of farce" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a predicate nominative or object of a preposition. Ludwig confirms that is correct and usable in written English. It identifies the subject as the target of humorous or absurd mockery.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "butt of farce" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe someone or something that is the target of humorous or absurd ridicule. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. It's found primarily in news and media contexts, with occasional appearances in encyclopedic and scientific writing. While not overly common, understanding its nuance – the element of theatrical absurdity – is key to its appropriate use. Consider alternatives like "object of ridicule" or "target of mockery" if the situation calls for a less overtly comical tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

object of ridicule

Focuses on the act of making someone or something appear ridiculous, without necessarily implying farce.

target of mockery

Highlights the act of mocking, which can be less theatrical than farce.

laughingstock

Emphasizes the state of being laughed at, potentially without the element of intentional humor associated with farce.

figure of fun

Suggests someone who is amusing or comical, possibly without being subjected to intense derision.

the subject of jest

Highlights that the person or thing is being joked about

prey to humor

Emphasizes the way humor impacts the individual

victim of satire

Highlights the use of irony and sarcasm

kidding target

Focuses on the individual as a person to be pranked or joked with

joke's punchline

Highlights the moment when the laughter and amusement is focused on the individual

mockery's recipient

Highlights the action of mocking

FAQs

How can I use "butt of farce" in a sentence?

You can use "butt of farce" to describe someone or something that is the target of ridicule or mockery in a humorous context. For example: "In the play, the character became the "butt of farce", as his clumsy attempts to impress the audience only led to laughter."

What are some alternatives to "butt of farce"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "object of ridicule", "target of mockery", or "laughingstock".

Is "butt of farce" grammatically correct?

Yes, "butt of farce" is grammatically correct. It's a common idiom that's widely accepted in English writing and speech.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "butt of farce"?

It's appropriate when you want to describe someone or something that is being ridiculed in a humorous or absurd way. However, it's not suitable for serious or tragic situations.