howling with laughter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "howling with laughter" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe someone laughing loudly and uncontrollably. Example: The comedian's jokes had the entire audience howling with laughter.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Everyone was howling with laughter.

The Guardian - Books

OK, time to stop howling with laughter.

The Guardian - Business

"I've never heard that," she said, howling with laughter.

The New York Times

"She had us in tears, and she had us howling with laughter".

The New York Times

"The officers left and didn't write anything," Mr. Shata said, howling with laughter.

The New York Times

"He said, 'Let me know when you have a manuscript.' I said, 'What?' " Ms. Ronstadt recalled, howling with laughter.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Everyone howled with laughter.

The New York Times - Sports

They howled with laughter.

The New York Times

He howls with laughter.

The Guardian

Edwyn howls with laughter.

The Guardian - Music

Johnny howled with laughter.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience when using this phrase; while widely understood, it is more appropriate for informal or descriptive writing than for highly formal or technical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "howling with laughter" too frequently, as it can lose its impact and make your writing seem exaggerated or insincere. Vary your descriptions of laughter with more subtle or nuanced expressions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "howling with laughter" functions as a descriptive verb phrase, depicting a vivid and unrestrained expression of amusement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show its application in describing reactions to comedic performances and humorous situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "howling with laughter" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb phrase that vividly describes a loud, unrestrained expression of amusement. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage across various sources. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase effectively conveys the intensity and exuberance of laughter, making it a valuable tool for descriptive writing. While it is more suited for informal contexts, its neutral register allows for broad application. Be mindful of overusing this hyperbole, and consider alternative expressions for variety and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

roaring with laughter

Implies a loud, unrestrained expression of laughter, similar to "howling with laughter" but potentially even louder.

convulsed with laughter

Suggests a physical reaction to extreme amusement, where the body is shaking or contorting due to laughter.

in stitches

An idiom indicating uncontrollable laughter, often implying that the laughter is painful or exhausting.

doubled over with laughter

Describes a physical posture resulting from intense laughter, where one bends at the waist.

laughing one's head off

An informal idiom indicating very loud and prolonged laughter.

in hysterics

Suggests an overwhelming emotional state characterized by uncontrollable laughter.

choking with laughter

Indicates that laughter is so intense it interferes with breathing.

splitting one's sides

An older idiom for laughing very hard.

bursting with laughter

Implies a sudden, explosive expression of laughter.

crying with laughter

Suggests laughter so intense that it brings tears to the eyes.

FAQs

How can I use "howling with laughter" in a sentence?

You can use "howling with laughter" to describe someone's reaction to something extremely funny. For example, "The comedian's jokes had the audience "howling with laughter"."

What are some alternatives to "howling with laughter"?

Alternatives include "roaring with laughter", "convulsed with laughter", or "in stitches", each conveying a similar sense of extreme amusement.

Is "howling with laughter" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "howling with laughter" is generally more suitable for informal or descriptive writing. Formal contexts might benefit from more restrained expressions of amusement.

What does "howling with laughter" emphasize in a description?

The phrase "howling with laughter" emphasizes the unrestrained, loud, and often physical nature of the laughter, suggesting that the person finds something exceptionally funny.