make fun out of

USAGE SUMMARY

"make fun out of" is a valid expression in English and is used when you want to transform a potentially dull, boring, or unpleasant situation into something that is amusing or enjoyable.
For example: "Let's try to make fun out of being stuck in traffic and play road trip bingo!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Both Deadpool and Zoolander 2 make fun out of facial disfigurement.

The Guardian - Film

For instance, I have lost count of the number of shows I have seen this year (it is certainly the majority) which make fun out of the Madeleine McCann case.

The Guardian

Ibrahim Yörük, a writer for the newly founded Islamic daily Vahdet, tweeted, using the hashtag #CharlieHebdo: "Look, one does not make fun out of insulting the people's beliefs @penguendergi, you'd better pay attention to this …" He attached a picture of the controversial caricature, with red arrows pointing to the writings on the mosque wall.

The Guardian

They can make fun out of mud puddles of the smallest circumference if left to their own devices.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The blunting of our society's natural repulsion to torture by making fun out of the imitation of human cruelty is a dangerous direction.

The New York Times

I think people are going realise: 'I supported them and now they're making fun out of this?'" The magazine has always ridiculed the sacred, he says.

The Guardian - Film

Even though no one here has seen the film, some sense it will traipse complacently down a well-worn path of making fun out of social deprivation and inequality.

The Guardian - Film

Klash is a mobile iOS app – using the Facebook open graph – that is about making fun out of competition.

TechCrunch

For example I would be made fun out of, tripped, had personal belongings stolen, like school textbooks.

Huffington Post

"Out of context, I agree that the joke was distasteful, and I'm very sorry he and I made fun out of a serious matter".

Huffington Post

You made fun out of them!

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience when using the phrase "make fun out of". While it can be lighthearted, it can also be offensive if directed at sensitive topics or individuals. Ensure the intent is playful rather than malicious.

Common error

Avoid using "make fun out of" in formal or serious writing. It can undermine your credibility and make your message seem insensitive. Opt for more neutral or respectful language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make fun out of" functions as a verb phrase used to express the act of ridiculing or teasing something or someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, it transforms a potentially dull situation into something amusing. The Ludwig examples show its use in different contexts, from films to personal interactions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make fun out of" describes the act of deriving amusement, often through teasing or ridicule, from something or someone. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and explains its purpose as transforming potentially dull situations. While grammatically correct, it's important to consider the context and audience, as highlighted in the writing guidance, to avoid causing offense. The phrase is relatively rare but present in news and media, as well as wiki sources. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "tease", ""poke fun at"", or "ridicule" depending on the desired nuance and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

poke fun at

Similar to tease, implying a lighthearted and often affectionate way of making fun.

tease

A gentler form of making fun, often playful and affectionate.

mock

A more direct and often harsher synonym for making fun, implying ridicule.

ridicule

Similar to mock, but can also mean to criticize or dismiss something as absurd.

laugh at

A more straightforward way of expressing amusement, potentially at someone else's expense.

make a joke of

To treat something serious as a joke; less direct than "make fun out of".

deride

Express contempt for; ridicule.

satirize

To use humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices.

lampoon

To publicly criticize someone or something by using ridicule, irony, or sarcasm.

gibe at

Make insulting remarks; jeer.

FAQs

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

You can use "make fun out of" to describe finding amusement in something, such as "They "poke fun at" each other's quirks" or "Let's "make a joke of" this difficult situation".

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

"Tease" typically implies a gentler, more playful form of "poking fun at", while "make fun out of" can sometimes carry a slightly harsher connotation depending on the context.

When is it inappropriate to "make fun out of" something?

It's generally inappropriate to "make fun out of" sensitive topics like personal tragedies, disabilities, or deeply held beliefs. Sensitivity and respect are key.

Are there formal alternatives to "make fun out of"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "satirize", "ridicule", or "mock" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey, but be aware that these can also sound more severe.