enough joking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "enough joking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to signal a transition from humor to a more serious topic or to indicate that the joking has gone on long enough. Example: "Alright, enough joking; let's get back to the main issue at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It would appear that, like me, opposition leader Tony Abbott had heard quite enough jokes about suppositories to last three lifetimes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Recently he was offered $200 to perform an hourlong routine, but he turnedit down because he did nothave enough jokes to fill the act .An hour's a lot of time," he explained with a shrug.

The New York Times

While we've certainly been blessed with parodies like Netflix's American Vandal, there hasn't been nearly enough jokes to keep up with this constant stream of earnest and terrifying crime podcasts.

Vice

O.K., enough jokes.

The New York Times - Sports

Surely that's more than enough jokes.

The New York Times - Arts

I remember someone shouting out: "We've paid for jokes, there aren't enough jokes".

The Guardian

In some contexts only suavity and refinement are good enough; jokes and cranky touches will not do.

The Guardian - Arts

In those early days, it was a means to fill time when he didn't have enough jokes.

The Guardian

The younger audience likes the scrapes the characters get into and we've always tried to write in enough jokes for an older audience to appreciate.

The Economist

THE SIMPSONS MOVIE The incomparable gang at full length for the first time, with enough jokes, satire, nonsense, and sentiment to justify the eighty-eight minutes.

The New Yorker

Modelled on Jason Bradbury, comedian-turned-presenter of The Gadget Show, "RoboJase" is programmed with enough jokes and audience banter for a five-minute set.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "enough joking" to transition smoothly from a light-hearted discussion to a more serious subject, ensuring your audience understands the shift in tone.

Common error

Avoid using "enough joking" in situations that require maintaining a light or humorous tone. The phrase abruptly signals a switch to seriousness, which may be unwelcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "enough joking" serves as a pragmatic marker, indicating a shift in the conversation from lighthearted banter to a more serious topic. It functions to signal the end of a humorous interlude.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "enough joking" is a phrase used to signal a transition from humor to seriousness. While grammatically correct and versatile, it is relatively rare and may sound abrupt in certain contexts. It is most commonly found in news and media but can be used more broadly. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is acceptable in written English. Consider alternative phrases such as "let's get serious" or "time to be serious" if you're looking for a smoother transition. Be mindful of the setting and audience to ensure your tone is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Enough with the jokes

Directly indicates that the stream of jokes should cease.

Cut the comedy

Abruptly stops any humorous behavior.

Let's drop the jokes

Suggests a direct move away from joking.

Let's get serious

Shifts the focus to a more solemn or important topic.

No more funny business

Ceases any kind of light hearted fooling around.

Time to be serious

Indicates a shift towards seriousness is required

Enough fooling around

Signals that playful behavior is no longer appropriate.

Enough levity

Indicates the previous lack of seriousness has gone on for long enough.

Seriously, now

Adds weight and immediacy to a call for seriousness.

It's time for serious talk

Emphasizes the need for a serious conversation.

FAQs

How can I use "enough joking" in a sentence?

"Enough joking", let's discuss the real issues at hand.

What's a less abrupt alternative to "enough joking"?

Consider using phrases like "let's get serious" or "time to be serious" for a smoother transition.

When is it inappropriate to say "enough joking"?

Avoid using "enough joking" in settings where humor is still appreciated, such as casual conversations or celebratory events.

Is "enough joking" suitable for formal communication?

While grammatically correct, "enough joking" may sound too informal for professional or academic settings. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "let's get down to business".