butt of the joke

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "butt of the joke" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to someone or something that is the target of humor or ridicule in a joke or comedic situation. Example: "In the comedy skit, he played the butt of the joke, always getting into ridiculous situations that made everyone laugh."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I don't mind being the butt of the joke.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

(And note that the butt of the joke is America's indebtedness to China, not China itself).

The Economist

Its not a strip-show; that's not the butt of the joke.

The Guardian

Still, if the whole thing's so unchallengeably hilarious, who's the butt of the joke?

The Guardian - Film

But in T-Swift's Shake It Off video, they became the butt of the joke.

The Guardian - Film

The butt of the joke takes pride in this kind of rejection.

The Guardian

Why is Snow Patrol so often the butt of the joke?

The Guardian - Music

And poor Jerry Gergich It did eventually turn out that Jerry/Gary/Larry loved being the butt of the joke.

Independent

The joke is itself a matchmaker; and the butt of the joke is the censorious suitor's demands for absolute perfection.

The New York Times - Arts

The trick is to join in and not take it to heart should you become the butt of the joke.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

There's an old joke in politics: the most dangerous place in Washington, it goes, is between Congressperson Butt-of-the-joke and a camera.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "butt of the joke", ensure the context clearly indicates that someone or something is being made fun of, and not simply involved in a humorous situation. It often carries a slightly negative connotation.

Common error

Avoid using "butt of the joke" when the humor is self-deprecating and the person is willingly participating in the joke. In such cases, it's more accurate to say someone is "in on the joke" rather than being its "butt".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "butt of the joke" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it identifies the target of humor, often implying a degree of ridicule or mockery. It describes who or what is being laughed at.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "butt of the joke" is a common idiom used to describe the person or thing that is the target of a joke, often implying ridicule or mockery. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to consider the implications of using this phrase, as it can sometimes carry negative connotations. Alternatives such as "object of ridicule" or "target of the humor" may be more appropriate in certain formal contexts. Understanding the subtle nuances and potential for misinterpretation is key to using this phrase effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

target of the humor

Emphasizes the humor involved, similar to "butt of the joke".

the ridiculed person

Simple and direct, emphasizing the act of ridicule.

object of ridicule

Focuses on the act of ridiculing rather than the comedic aspect.

the one being mocked

Directly states the act of mockery.

figure of fun

Conveys a sense of amusement derived at someone's expense.

subject of derision

Highlights the contemptuous ridicule involved.

laughingstock

Highlights the public humiliation aspect.

one on whom the joke is played

More descriptive, focusing on the act of playing a joke.

victim of the jest

More formal and literary, implies being subjected to a joke.

the fall guy

Suggests someone taking the blame or ridicule for others.

FAQs

How can I use "butt of the joke" in a sentence?

You can use "butt of the joke" to describe someone or something that is the target of mockery or humor, like: "In the office, he was often the "butt of the joke" because of his quirky habits."

What is a similar phrase to "butt of the joke"?

Similar phrases include "object of ridicule", "laughingstock", or "target of the humor". Each carries slightly different connotations but generally refers to someone being made fun of.

Is it always negative to be the "butt of the joke"?

While being the "butt of the joke" can sometimes be humiliating, it isn't always negative. Sometimes people willingly play the role for comedic effect or to diffuse tension.

Can I use "butt of the joke" in formal writing?

While understandable, "butt of the joke" is generally considered informal. In formal writing, consider alternatives like "object of ridicule" or "target of the humor" for a more professional tone.