laughing hysterically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "laughing hysterically" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is laughing uncontrollably or in a very exaggerated manner, often due to amusement or a humorous situation. Example: "When she heard the joke, she couldn't help but start laughing hysterically, drawing the attention of everyone in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I was laughing hysterically.

Independent

"I'm laughing hysterically.

The New York Times - Arts

I was laughing hysterically inside.

The New York Times - Magazine

"She started laughing hysterically," Mr. Bova said.

The New York Times

You see it in children who start laughing hysterically.

Independent

(You may stop laughing hysterically now. Seriously. Get up).

The New York Times

In another video, the teenagers are laughing hysterically.

The Washington Post

Keith and Madalyn were behind them, laughing hysterically.

The New York Times

However, he keeps having to sit down, laughing hysterically.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In two seconds his father is laughing hysterically.

The New Yorker

When the putt went in at the 18th, he began laughing hysterically, unable to stop.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "laughing hysterically" to vividly describe a character's reaction to something extremely funny or absurd, enhancing the emotional impact of the scene.

Common error

Avoid using "laughing hysterically" too frequently, as it can lose its impact. Vary your descriptions of laughter with more subtle or nuanced expressions to keep your writing engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "laughing hysterically" functions as a verb phrase typically used as a predicate or part of a predicate. According to Ludwig, it is used to describe the act of laughing in an uncontrolled and exaggerated manner. Examples found in Ludwig show it modifying the subject in various narrative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "laughing hysterically" is a grammatically sound and commonly used verb phrase that describes an intense, uncontrolled form of laughter. Ludwig's AI confirms its validity, with numerous examples available. It is predominantly found in News & Media, suggesting a neutral register. For more nuanced descriptions, alternatives such as "bursting into uncontrollable laughter" or "roaring with laughter" can be considered. When using the phrase, ensure it aligns with the context to effectively convey the intended emotional intensity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dissolving into fits of laughter

Conveys a sense of losing control and being overwhelmed by laughter.

bursting into uncontrollable laughter

Emphasizes the sudden and irrepressible nature of the laughter.

guffawing uncontrollably

Highlights a loud and hearty burst of laughter that cannot be contained.

howling with laughter

Implies loud, unrestrained laughter, similar to the sound of howling.

roaring with laughter

Suggests loud, boisterous laughter, often shared in a group.

cackling madly

Suggests a wild, unrestrained form of laughter, possibly bordering on insanity.

dying of laughter

Conveys intense amusement, to a point of feeling weakened by it.

shrieking with amusement

Emphasizes a high-pitched, gleeful reaction of intense joy.

splitting their sides laughing

A vivid expression describing extreme amusement.

creasing up with laughter

Describes how someone's face wrinkles when laughing in amusement.

FAQs

How can I use "laughing hysterically" in a sentence?

You can use "laughing hysterically" to describe someone's reaction to something extremely funny. For example, "When she saw the prank, she started "laughing hysterically"."

What's a more formal way to say "laughing hysterically"?

While "laughing hysterically" is generally acceptable, you might consider more formal alternatives like "erupted in uncontrollable laughter" or "succumbed to an attack of giggles" depending on the context.

Is it ever inappropriate to use the phrase "laughing hysterically"?

The appropriateness depends on context. Avoid using "laughing hysterically" in situations where humor is clearly misplaced or insensitive, such as describing someone's reaction to a tragedy.

What can I say instead of "laughing hysterically"?

You can use alternatives like "cackling madly", "howling with laughter", or "roaring with laughter" depending on the intensity and style of laughter you want to convey.