laughable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "laughable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is so absurd or ridiculous that it provokes laughter or disbelief. Example: "The idea that we could finish the project in one day is laughable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Even five years ago, the idea of talking up the Australian capital's creative life and culinary achievements may have been laughable.

The Guardian - Travel

Ashcroft found the weaknesses of the party leaders as voters drew laughable comparisons.

The Guardian

It's not just Liberal politicians and apparatchiks that find something inherently laughable about Irish people.

The Guardian - Opinion

Jack, don't pay your band!) is laughable, but it speaks volumes about the double standards with which the world tackles the music industry: you're damned if you play by the rules, and you're damned if you find a creative way to thwart them.

The Guardian - Opinion

In a report on the Guardian's reporting published on Friday night, the Chicago Tribune characterized local attorneys' perception of the statement as "laughable".

The Guardian

The profiles lifted pictures of me from elsewhere on the web and photoshopped them, and made me out to be an ultra-nationalist gay transvestite (I know; funny in a WTF sort of way and almost flattering), and would have been laughable if they hadn't started creeping up my Google rankings to the point where, if someone Googled me, the fake profiles would appear on the first page.

The Guardian - Tech

Melbourne-based Jewish MP Michael Danby rejected the allegation on the ABC and accused Carr of bigotry: "It's laughable but I suppose in the current climate, as George Brandis says, it's OK to be a bigot.

The Guardian

However, the Liberal-National government's only climate policy is the laughable "direct action" policy, which would see an increase in emissions and massive payments made to big polluters.

The Guardian

We should rise above her laughable idea that freelancers are "born with a special kind of immunity to sickness".

The Guardian

He said it mystified him why any party would vote against it and said it was laughable to suggest that Ireland could get a better deal from the IMF.

The Guardian - Business

A decade ago the idea of a World Cup played in a Qatari June in temperatures in excess of 40C (104F) would have been laughable but the country's carbon‑neutral, fully air‑conditioned stadiums and training arenas are proving criticism confounding.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when using "laughable", as it can be perceived as dismissive or arrogant if not used carefully.

Common error

While "laughable" is appropriate in many situations, avoid overuse in formal writing or professional settings where a more neutral or diplomatic tone is required. Consider alternatives like "unrealistic" or "implausible" instead.

Linguistic Context

The word "laughable" functions primarily as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe something as deserving of laughter or scorn because it is ridiculous or absurd. Ludwig indicates that it's a common and acceptable term in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "laughable" is a commonly used adjective to describe something as ridiculous or deserving of scorn, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its grammatical function is straightforward, and it serves the purpose of expressing strong disagreement or disbelief. While generally considered neutral, its dismissive tone may not be suitable for all contexts. Ludwig's examples demonstrate frequent usage in news and media, as well as formal and business settings. When using "laughable", consider your audience and the desired tone, opting for alternatives like "ridiculous" or "absurd" in more formal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ridiculous

Emphasizes the absurdity and lack of reason.

absurd

Highlights the illogical and nonsensical nature.

preposterous

Suggests something is utterly foolish and outrageous.

ludicrous

Focuses on the comical and farcical aspect.

farcical

Implies a situation is a mockery or a sham.

derisory

Indicates something is deserving of contemptuous mockery.

comical

Points to the amusing or humorous aspect, often unintentionally.

risible

Describes something that provokes laughter.

worthy of scorn

Highlights the contemptible nature of something.

too silly for words

Emphasizes the extreme foolishness and lack of seriousness.

FAQs

How can I use "laughable" in a sentence?

You can use "laughable" to describe something considered ridiculous or absurd. For example, "The suggestion that we could complete the project in a day is laughable."

What are some synonyms for "laughable"?

Some synonyms for "laughable" include "ridiculous", "absurd", "preposterous", and "ludicrous".

When is it appropriate to use the word "laughable"?

It's appropriate to use "laughable" when you want to express strong disbelief or ridicule towards an idea, plan, or statement that you find completely illogical or unrealistic. However, be mindful of your audience as it can come across as dismissive.

What is the difference between "laughable" and "ridiculous"?

While both "laughable" and "ridiculous" imply something is absurd, "laughable" often suggests a stronger sense of scorn or derision. "Ridiculous" simply means silly or foolish, while "laughable" implies something is so bad it's almost funny.