object of ridicule

USAGE SUMMARY

"object of ridicule" is a perfectly acceptable phrase commonly used in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is the target of ridicule or mockery. For example: "The outdated fashion choices of the old woman made her the object of ridicule among the younger generation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Shakespeare himself became an object of ridicule.

The Guardian

You can not be the object of ridicule".

The New York Times - Magazine

— This city has long been an object of ridicule.

The New York Times

He became a Facebook celebrity and an object of ridicule.

The New York Times

(It's never easy loving an object of ridicule).

The New York Times

When the world fails to change as promised, however, the music becomes an object of ridicule.

The New Yorker

So it sits empty, an object of ridicule around here, often referred to as the "spa".

The New York Times

And finally, a bizarre figure; something of an object of ridicule.

The New York Times

The real danger for the government is that it is becoming an object of ridicule.

The Economist

He is the movie's only character who could be described as an object of ridicule.

The New York Times

Ultimately such a woman is the object of ridicule and shunning.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "object of ridicule" when you want to emphasize the passive role of the person or thing being mocked. It highlights that they are the target of others' derision.

Common error

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "object of ridicule" emphasizes the passive role of the target, whereas "subject of ridicule" can sometimes suggest a more active involvement or responsibility in the situation leading to the ridicule. Choose the phrase that best reflects the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "object of ridicule" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a predicate nominative or an object of a preposition. Ludwig confirms its standard usage in describing entities that are targets of mockery or derision. For instance, in the example, "Shakespeare himself became an object of ridicule".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "object of ridicule" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe someone or something that is the target of mockery. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and high frequency in News & Media and Academic contexts. While alternatives like "laughingstock" or "target of mockery" exist, "object of ridicule" distinctly emphasizes the passive role of the subject being ridiculed. Understanding its function and appropriate contexts ensures precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

target of mockery

Similar to "object of ridicule", but "mockery" can sometimes imply a more malicious intent than simple ridicule.

the ridiculed one

This phrase directly identifies the individual as someone who is subjected to ridicule, highlighting their victim status.

subject of derision

"Derision" implies contemptuous mockery, suggesting a stronger and more negative reaction than simple ridicule.

figure of scorn

Emphasizes the feeling of contempt or disdain directed towards the subject.

laughingstock

This term implies a person or thing that is considered ridiculous and is laughed at by many people.

one to be sneered at

This expression highlights the act of sneering, indicating a dismissive and contemptuous attitude.

butt of jokes

This alternative emphasizes the role of being the target of jokes, highlighting the humor directed at the subject.

figure of fun

Suggests someone who is seen as amusing or comical, often in a slightly demeaning way.

source of amusement

This phrase focuses on the entertainment value others derive from the subject, often at their expense.

a fool in the eyes of others

This longer alternative highlights the perception of foolishness that leads to ridicule.

FAQs

How can I use "object of ridicule" in a sentence?

You can use "object of ridicule" to describe someone or something that is being mocked or laughed at. For example, "His outlandish hat made him the "object of ridicule" at the party".

What are some alternatives to "object of ridicule"?

Some alternatives to "object of ridicule" include "laughingstock", "target of mockery", or "butt of jokes". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "object of ridicule" or "subject of ridicule"?

Both "object of ridicule" and "subject of ridicule" are grammatically correct, but "object" emphasizes the passive role of being targeted, while "subject" can imply a more active role, even if unintentional. Choose the one that best fits the context.

What makes someone or something an "object of ridicule"?

Someone or something becomes an "object of ridicule" when their actions, appearance, or beliefs are perceived as foolish, absurd, or worthy of mockery by others.