complete joke

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complete joke" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is not taken seriously or is considered absurd or ridiculous. Example: "The way they handled the situation was a complete joke, and it left everyone frustrated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

What a complete joke.

Independent

"It's a complete joke.

Independent

A complete joke.

University of California, Berkeley

The process transformation group is a complete joke!

University of California, Berkeley

Get it sorted TSB what a complete joke !

The Guardian - Business

This is why baseball is a complete joke.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

When we reached Knute Rockne Gate, we were creating hypotheticals — complete jokes.

The New York Times

First off, Joe Dator: The difference for me is that, in a good cartoon, the caption and the drawing support each other to make the joke work, whereas tweets are one-liners that stand on their own as complete jokes.

The New Yorker

"All I said, in a complete joking fashion, was that I was European champion," said Vernon, 29.

BBC

"All I said in a complete joking fashion when we were all round the table, with a few other people, in good spirits having a laugh and a joke, was that I was European champion," Vernon said.

BBC

They do like him but that was a complete and utter joke.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "complete joke" to express strong disapproval or dismissal of something deemed utterly inadequate or ridiculous. Ensure the context clearly indicates why it is considered a joke.

Common error

Avoid using "complete joke" in formal or professional settings where a more nuanced or diplomatic expression of disapproval is required. Opt for phrases like "unacceptable" or "highly inappropriate" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complete joke" functions as an adjective phrase, intensifying the noun "joke". It's used to express strong disapproval or ridicule, indicating that something is not only a joke but entirely so. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Academia

10%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complete joke" is a commonly used expression to indicate that something is utterly ridiculous or inadequate. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While predominantly found in news and media, it is essential to note that in formal contexts, it's better to use less informal alternatives like "total farce" or "utter absurdity". It serves to express strong disapproval. When writing, ensure its usage aligns with the intended tone and audience to prevent misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

total farce

Emphasizes the deceptive and absurd nature, suggesting a sham or mockery.

utter absurdity

Highlights the nonsensical and irrational quality of something.

absolute sham

Focuses on the pretense and falseness, indicating something is not genuine.

laughingstock

Implies that something is worthy of ridicule and derision.

total mockery

Stresses the act of making fun of or treating with contempt.

blatant absurdity

Emphasizes the obvious and conspicuous nature of the absurdity.

ridiculous excuse

Highlights the unconvincing and laughable nature of a justification.

preposterous notion

Focuses on the outrageous and unreasonable nature of an idea.

ludicrous situation

Highlights the amusingly absurd and unreasonable aspects of a scenario.

pathetic attempt

Emphasizes the inadequacy and pitiable quality of an effort.

FAQs

How can I use "complete joke" in a sentence?

You can use "complete joke" to express disbelief or disapproval. For instance, "The way they handled the situation was a "complete joke", and it left everyone frustrated".

What are some alternatives to saying "complete joke"?

You can use alternatives like "total farce", "utter absurdity", or "absolute sham" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "complete joke" in formal writing?

While "complete joke" is widely understood, it's generally best to avoid it in formal writing. Opt for more professional phrases like "unacceptable" or "highly inappropriate".

What's the difference between saying something is a "complete joke" versus a "total farce"?

"Complete joke" implies something is ridiculous or not to be taken seriously, while "total farce" suggests a deceptive or sham-like quality. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the ridiculousness or the deception.