outbursts of laughter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outbursts of laughter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe sudden and loud expressions of amusement or joy, often in response to something funny. Example: "The comedian's jokes were so hilarious that they prompted outbursts of laughter from the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Unfailingly courteous and known for his cheery outbursts of laughter, he was one of the trade's greatest enthusiasts and one of its fairest critics.

The Guardian

As he recalls watching Mr. Khamenei stare out the window of his cell weeping as he recited Koran and being reprimanded for outbursts of laughter with him while joking together in prison, Mr. Asadi said he would now ask him one question: "Do you remember what you said?

The New York Times

"Thwak" is roughly 80 minutes of intermissionless sound and fury signifying zany fun, and this two-man exercise in comic new vaudeville by the irrepressible Umbilical Brothers of Australia will be touching off outbursts of laughter for audiences 12 and older at the New Victory Theater through April 27.

The New York Times

The audience was very supportive and followed along with generous applause and outbursts of laughter.

HuffPost

Mindy Kaling's Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? made a fool out of me by prompting public outbursts of laughter when I was all by my lonesome.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Mr Serious in a Championship that ended as an outburst of laughter.

The Guardian - Sport

However, when I relate the science to descriptions of "bling-blinging rims" on car wheels, I am guaranteed a look of shock, an outburst of laughter and enough attention to relate the basics of the oxidative process.

The New York Times

It won him a huge outburst of laughter: "May God forgive you".

Huffington Post

Justice Department attorneys claimed during the trial that laughter was enough to merit a criminal charge against Fairooz, asserting that "heads turned around" when Fairooz let out what they characterized as a "scoff," "outburst" or "burst" of laughter.

HuffPost

Justice Department attorneys claimed during the trial that laughter was enough to merit a criminal charge against Fairooz, asserting that "heads turned around" when Fairooz let out what they characterized as a "scoff," "outburst" or "burst" of laughter.

Huffington Post

Violence and a woozy surrealism – the drunken orgy involves a rabbit costume – come to a convincing head in the final moments, with outbursts of hysterical laughter.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "outbursts of laughter" to vividly describe moments of sudden and often uncontrollable amusement, especially in response to humorous or surprising events. This phrase effectively conveys both the intensity and spontaneity of the laughter.

Common error

While "outbursts of laughter" is appropriate in many situations, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or academic writing where a more restrained tone is expected. Consider alternatives like "expressions of amusement" or "audible laughter" to maintain a professional style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outbursts of laughter" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes instances where laughter erupts suddenly and forcefully. The provided examples in Ludwig illustrate its use in describing audience reactions and personal experiences.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

HuffPost

20%

The Guardian

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "outbursts of laughter" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that effectively describes sudden and expressive moments of amusement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides relevant examples of its usage. While primarily found in news and media contexts, it's essential to consider the formality of your writing and adjust your phrasing accordingly. Alternatives such as "fits of giggles" or "roars of laughter" may be more appropriate depending on the desired tone and intensity. The phrase is suitable for a neutral register, making it widely applicable while being mindful of potential overuse in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

roars of laughter

Indicates very loud and boisterous laughter.

peals of laughter

Emphasizes a ringing, bell-like quality of the laughter.

gales of laughter

Presents a powerful, sweeping image of laughter.

fits of giggles

Focuses on repeated, quiet laughter rather than a single, loud expression.

howls of amusement

Suggests loud, unrestrained, and often prolonged laughter.

bursts of merriment

Highlights the joyful and cheerful nature of the laughter.

eruptions of mirth

Uses a more forceful, almost explosive image to describe the laughter.

waves of amusement

Suggests a spreading, encompassing feeling of laughter throughout a group.

spontaneous laughter

Highlights the unplanned and genuine nature of the laughter.

shrieks of glee

Emphasizes high-pitched, excited laughter or sounds of joy.

FAQs

How can I use "outbursts of laughter" in a sentence?

"Outbursts of laughter" can be used to describe a sudden, loud expression of amusement. For example, "The comedian's routine was met with "outbursts of laughter" from the audience".

What are some alternatives to "outbursts of laughter"?

Alternatives to "outbursts of laughter" include "fits of giggles", "peals of laughter", "roars of laughter", and "howls of amusement", depending on the intensity and nature of the laughter.

Is it appropriate to use "outbursts of laughter" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "outbursts of laughter" might be too informal for certain academic or highly professional contexts. Consider more subdued alternatives like "expressions of amusement" or "audible laughter" to maintain a formal tone.

What is the difference between "outbursts of laughter" and "gales of laughter"?

"Outbursts of laughter" implies sudden and perhaps brief episodes of laughter, while "gales of laughter" suggests a more prolonged and intense experience, akin to a strong wind.