make fun of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make fun of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe someone making a joke or teasing someone in a friendly way. For example, "My friends and I like to make fun of each other's bad jokes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Make fun of clichéd responses.

The Guardian - Opinion

Don't make fun of me.

The New Yorker

Or make fun of it.

The New Yorker

"I make fun of myself.

The New Yorker

Or make fun of them".

The New York Times

I make fun of academics.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

So many dads to make fun of!

The New York Times

Just come and make fun of us".

The New York Times - Magazine

"My friends all make fun of me.

The New Yorker

They make fun of their own people".

The New York Times

Some musicians make fun of corny standards.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make fun of", be mindful of your audience and the potential impact of your words. Humor should be inclusive and not cause genuine harm or distress.

Common error

Avoid crossing the line between playful teasing and hurtful bullying. If someone expresses discomfort or offense, stop immediately and apologize.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make fun of" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the act of ridiculing, teasing, or mocking someone or something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. It conveys a sense of humor, often at the expense of another.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

47%

News & Media

47%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make fun of" is a common and generally accepted way to describe the act of teasing, ridiculing, or mocking someone or something. As Ludwig AI indicates, the expression is correct and usable in written English, though its appropriateness depends heavily on context. While it appears frequently in news and media, and informal online sources, it's crucial to consider the potential impact of your words. The related phrases, such as "tease" or "ridicule", offer nuanced alternatives, and awareness of common errors, such as confusing teasing with bullying, is essential for responsible communication. Use the phrase mindfully to ensure humor remains inclusive and harmless.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

poke fun at

This alternative is a more direct synonym, emphasizing the act of directing humor towards a specific person or thing.

make sport of

This alternative is a slightly archaic expression, suggesting that someone is being treated as an object of amusement or entertainment.

tease

This alternative is a more gentle and playful way to express mockery, often implying affection or familiarity.

scoff at

This alternative suggests a disdainful or contemptuous form of mockery, often involving dismissive laughter or scornful remarks.

mock

This alternative emphasizes imitation or mimicry, often to expose flaws or shortcomings in a humorous or satirical way.

ridicule

This alternative suggests a more harsh and critical form of mockery, often intended to demean or belittle someone.

deride

This alternative is a more formal and intellectual way to express contemptuous mockery, often involving reasoned arguments or logical analysis.

taunt

This alternative implies a provocative and often aggressive form of teasing, intended to provoke or upset someone.

satirize

This alternative focuses on using humor to criticize or expose societal flaws or political issues, often with a transformative or reformative intent.

lampoon

This alternative is a more pointed and exaggerated form of satire, often using caricature or distortion to ridicule someone or something.

FAQs

How can I use "make fun of" in a sentence?

You can use "make fun of" to describe the act of teasing or ridiculing someone or something in a playful or mocking way. For example, "The comedian likes to "poke fun at" political figures".

What can I say instead of "make fun of"?

Alternatives include "tease", "ridicule", "mock", or "poke fun at", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to "make fun of" someone?

No, it's not always appropriate. It depends on the context, your relationship with the person, and their sensitivity. Be mindful of not crossing the line into bullying or causing genuine harm.

What's the difference between "make fun of" and "tease"?

"Tease" is generally lighter and more playful, while "make fun of" can sometimes imply a more critical or mocking intent. The distinction often depends on the tone and context.