cracking up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cracking up" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone laughing uncontrollably or becoming very amused. Example: "When I heard the joke, I couldn't help but start cracking up in the middle of the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

3. Is Claire cracking up?

Independent

Your're cracking up, Smyth.

The Guardian - Sport

Knight was cracking up the audience.

The New York Times - Arts

It's on your iPhone!" Cracking up.

Independent

She's cracking up over the idea of cracking up.

The Guardian - Film

His last completed feature, "Cracking Up" (a.k.a.a

The New Yorker

The kids were just cracking up.

The Guardian - Arts

Edie Sedgwick is cracking up on screen.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Cracking Up/Venus in Furs 12. Miss Joanie Lee 13.

The Guardian - Music

There she is cracking up at a campfire.

Huffington Post

Are you cracking up at the outrageousness yet?

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cracking up" to describe situations where someone is overcome with laughter or is on the verge of losing emotional control. It's best suited for informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "cracking up" in formal writing or professional settings. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "succumbing to pressure" or "showing signs of instability" when describing mental strain in serious contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "cracking up" primarily functions as an intransitive verb phrase, meaning it does not take a direct object. It is often used to describe a state of either intense laughter or mental/emotional distress. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Arts

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Sport

8%

Academia

7%

Vice

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "cracking up" is a common expression with two primary meanings: laughing uncontrollably or experiencing mental/emotional distress. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is generally used in informal contexts, as highlighted by its frequent occurrence in news and media sources. Related phrases include "bursting out laughing" and "losing it", but it's important to consider the specific context to choose the most appropriate alternative. When writing, avoid using "cracking up" in formal settings and be mindful of the register to maintain the desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bursting out laughing

Focuses specifically on the act of suddenly starting to laugh.

losing it

Implies a loss of control, either emotionally or mentally.

breaking down

Suggests a collapse, often emotionally or mentally, highlighting the distress involved.

falling apart

Similar to breaking down, but emphasizes disintegration and a loss of cohesion.

going to pieces

Another way to express emotional or mental collapse, with a slightly more dramatic tone.

dissolving into laughter

Emphasizes the complete immersion in laughter.

succumbing to hysterics

Highlights uncontrolled emotional outburst.

being overcome with laughter

Focuses on the overpowering nature of the laughter.

descending into chaos

Implies a situation falling into disarray.

imploding emotionally

Suggests an inward collapse of emotional stability.

FAQs

How can I use "cracking up" in a sentence?

You can use "cracking up" to describe someone laughing uncontrollably or someone experiencing a mental breakdown. For example: "The comedian's jokes had the audience cracking up" or "The pressure of the job was causing him to start cracking up".

What's a more formal way to say "cracking up"?

In formal contexts, instead of "cracking up", consider using phrases like "losing composure", "succumbing to pressure", or "showing signs of distress" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "cracking up" in professional emails?

Generally, no. "Cracking up" is informal. In professional emails, it's better to use more formal language to maintain a respectful and serious tone. Consider phrases like "experiencing difficulties" or "under significant stress".

What is the difference between "breaking down" and "cracking up"?

"Cracking up" can refer to either laughing uncontrollably or experiencing a mental breakdown, while "breaking down" typically refers specifically to emotional or mental collapse. "Cracking up" can also mean someone is starting to laugh, whereas "breaking down" implies a more advanced state of distress.