it is absurd

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is absurd" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express disbelief or to highlight something that seems unreasonable or illogical. Example: "The idea that we can solve this complex issue overnight is absurd."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is absurd," she says.

The Guardian

It is absurd, of course!

The New York Times

Of course, it is absurd.

The Guardian - Film

So much of it is absurd".

The New Yorker

It is absurd, potentially harmful, pseudopsychiatry.

The New York Times

It is absurd, but mesmeric.

The Guardian - Film

It is absurd, gratuitous, trite and desperate.

The Guardian - Arts

"It is absurd and uncalled for".

The Guardian - Tech

It is absurd to blame the EU for being "divided".

Independent

"It is absurd to compare them," he said.

The Guardian

It is absurd to say so many millions died.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is absurd" to clearly and directly express disbelief or disagreement with an idea or situation.

Common error

While "it is absurd" is generally acceptable, be mindful of the context. In highly formal writing, consider using more nuanced or sophisticated language to express disagreement or disbelief.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is absurd" primarily functions as an evaluative statement. It is used to express a negative judgment or strong disagreement with a particular idea, action, or situation. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable. This is evident in many examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is absurd" is a common and grammatically sound way to express strong disagreement or disbelief. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and the numerous examples illustrate its usage across diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While generally neutral in register, careful consideration should be given to the formality of the writing. Consider alternative phrases like "it is ridiculous" or "it is preposterous" for nuanced expression. Be mindful when using "it is absurd" in formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is ridiculous

This alternative uses a more informal term to express the same sentiment of something being laughable or unworthy of serious consideration.

it is preposterous

This phrase suggests that something is utterly foolish or outrageous, emphasizing the lack of sense.

it is nonsensical

This alternative emphasizes the lack of logical sense, highlighting the absence of meaning or reason.

it is ludicrous

Similar to ridiculous, this term also conveys a sense of something being laughable or deserving of scornful mockery.

it is illogical

This phrase points out the lack of logical consistency or rational basis for something.

it is unreasonable

This alternative suggests that something goes beyond the limits of what is fair, just, or tolerable.

it is senseless

This emphasizes that something lacks a purpose or meaning, highlighting its futility.

it is outrageous

This implies a strong violation of accepted standards of decency or morality, making it unacceptable.

it is farcical

This emphasizes the ludicrous and empty nature of something, implying a mocking or satirical tone.

it beggars belief

This idiom suggests that something is so extraordinary or improbable that it is hard to believe.

FAQs

How can I use "it is absurd" in a sentence?

You can use "it is absurd" to express disagreement or disbelief. For example, "it is absurd to think that we can solve this problem overnight."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is absurd"?

You can use alternatives like "it is ridiculous", "it is preposterous", or "it is nonsensical" depending on the context.

Is "it is absurd" too informal for academic writing?

While generally acceptable, "it is absurd" might be perceived as too direct in some academic contexts. Consider using a more formal alternative or elaborating on your reasoning.

What's the difference between "it is absurd" and "it is unlikely"?

"It is absurd" expresses disbelief or disagreement, while "it is unlikely" suggests a low probability. The former is stronger in its rejection of an idea.