parodic

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'parodic' is correct and can be used in written English.
This word is used as an adjective to describe a work that is similar to or imitates a particular style in a humorous way. For example, "The movie was a parodic version of a sci-fi movie, poking fun at the genre."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

There was also much wit in Bartlett's use of a parodic iambic pentameter and in the tissue of references to Shakespeare's plays: to Richard II in the image of deposition, to both parts of Henry IV in the portrait of a rogue Prince Harry rejoicing in, and ultimately rejecting, low life and even to Hamlet in the idea of Diana's ghost as an instrument of prophecy.

The Guardian

Hirst enlivened an exhausted art world with parodic "modern paintings" that beg to be enjoyed ironically.

The Guardian - Arts

Accidentally, the bioform wipes everyone out, except for Jimmy, Crake's humanoid tribe, and the animals.All of this is done on a roll of dry, black, parodic laughter.

The Economist

You are doing great, guy.'" Geraldine suggests that these views of Hitler informed her father's parodic performance in "The Great Dictator", his first talking picture and one of his most successful.

The Economist

"The Preacher and the Slave", a parodic hymn that Hill composed to "fan the flames of discontent", is remembered, albeit with sepia-tinged nostalgia, as the signature tune of the Wobblies.In this section Man's best friend Gathered in the marketplace Songwriter shot dead Cat got your tongue?

The Economist

Those who fail are transformed into animals and abandoned in the wild; the only escape option is a colony of loners in the forest.The arbitrary rules and parodic vision of speed-dating might ring a little bell with unhitched viewers.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Hence the three-possibly-four-way split looming: votes for and against (Charles Kennedy and Ming Campbell), abstentions, and a vote to postpone the vote, with Clegg making an enforced virtue of self-parodic diversity.

The Guardian - Opinion

This results in self-parodic policy messages, such as: "We'll borrow £70bn less than Labour.

The Guardian

The parliament's demands range from the highly ambitious (such as the right to vet new ambassadors who will head the biggest EU delegations) to the self-parodic (a demand that EU delegations must employ staff purely to look after MEPs on their foreign junkets).

The Economist

In 1995 "My So-Called Life" was pushing the envelope by including a gay best-friend character; by the time of "Glee", even a semi-parodic high-school show has to have a semi-parodic gay character who goes through a semi-parodic coming-out drama with his dad.

The Economist

At times this school of journalism can be self-parodic in its effort to add detail eg "At 5.00 am on March 17 , 2008 it was still dark, save for the headlights of the black Mercedes idling in the driveway, the beams illuminating patches of slush that were scattered across the lawns of the twelve-acre estate".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "parodic" to describe works that intentionally imitate the style of something else for humorous or critical effect. Ensure the imitation is recognizable and the intent is clear.

Common error

Avoid using "parodic" when the imitation is unintentional or lacks a clear humorous or critical purpose. Using a similar term like "imitative" might be more appropriate in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "parodic" primarily functions to describe a noun, indicating that it imitates the style of something else, usually for humorous or critical effect. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples showcasing its descriptive role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

27%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

7%

Wiki

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "parodic" is a versatile adjective used to describe something that imitates another work or style for humorous or critical purposes. Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically correct and very common in various contexts, particularly in news media, encyclopedias, and academic writing. While synonyms like "satirical" and "mocking" exist, "parodic" specifically emphasizes the imitative nature of the humor. When using "parodic", ensure the intent is clear and the imitation is recognizable to avoid misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spoofing

Specifically refers to a humorous imitation of a particular genre or work.

satirical

Focuses more on the use of humor, irony, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices.

lampooning

Emphasizes the use of satire or irony to ridicule or mock someone or something.

derisive

Implies contemptuous ridicule or mockery.

mocking

Implies ridicule and derision, often with the intention of belittling or making fun of something.

caricaturing

Highlights the exaggeration of certain characteristics to create a comic or grotesque effect.

burlesque

Suggests a ludicrous or mocking imitation, often exaggerated and vulgar.

mimicking

Suggests a close imitation, often for amusement or mockery.

travesty

Indicates a debased or grotesque imitation, often implying a serious misrepresentation.

imitating

Focuses on replicating the style or manner of something, without necessarily implying humor or critique.

FAQs

How can I use "parodic" in a sentence?

You can use "parodic" to describe something that imitates another work or style in a humorous way. For example, "The play was a "parodic" take on Shakespeare's Hamlet."

What's the difference between "parodic" and satirical?

"Parodic" refers to something that imitates for humorous effect, while "satirical" uses humor to critique or expose flaws.

What are some synonyms for "parodic"?

Synonyms for "parodic" include "satirical", "mocking", and "spoofing". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "parodic" to describe a serious work?

While "parodic" primarily implies humor, it can be used if the work contains elements of imitation for a critical or ironic purpose. However, ensure the humorous intent is discernible; otherwise, choose a more neutral term.