peal of laughter

USAGE SUMMARY

"peal of laughter" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a loud and sustained burst of laughter from a group of people. Example: As the comedian told his final joke, a peal of laughter erupted from the audience, filling the room with joy.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

"No!" she said, letting out a peal of laughter.

The New Yorker

The King emits a peal of laughter that sounds like defeat itself.

The New Yorker

They are extremely artistic — or autistic," she said, with a peal of laughter.

The New Yorker

"Not of my calibre," she said without hesitation (and the obligatory peal of laughter).

The New Yorker

One artless peal of laughter after another loosed itself into the air.

The New Yorker

That is a funny joke," said my Aunt Anna-Greta with a hearty peal of laughter and a knee slap.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

More peals of laughter.

The New York Times - Magazine

Peals of laughter could be heard.

The Washington Post

The line draws peals of laughter.

The Washington Post

Duff erupts into peals of laughter.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

That was followed by peals of laughter.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "peal of laughter" to vividly describe a loud, resonant, and often prolonged burst of laughter, especially when emphasizing its joyous or infectious quality.

Common error

Avoid using "peal of laughter" for mild or quiet laughter. The phrase suggests a strong, resounding sound, not a polite chuckle.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "peal of laughter" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific instance or sound of laughter, as evidenced by Ludwig, where it is often used to depict a reaction or atmosphere.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "peal of laughter" is a noun phrase used to describe a loud, resonant, and often sustained burst of laughter. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it's grammatically sound and appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, though best reserved for instances of truly resounding mirth. While alternatives like "burst of laughter" or "gales of laughter" exist, "peal of laughter" uniquely emphasizes the echoing, bell-like quality of the sound. Avoiding its use for quiet chuckles is key to maintaining its descriptive power.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

burst of laughter

Emphasizes the sudden and explosive nature of the laughter.

roar of laughter

Highlights the loud, booming quality of the laughter.

gales of laughter

Suggests uncontrollable and prolonged laughter, like a strong wind.

outburst of laughter

Focuses on the sudden release of laughter.

spontaneous laughter

Highlights the unplanned and natural occurrence of laughter.

hearty laughter

Emphasizes the genuine and sincere nature of the laughter.

uproarious laughter

Indicates laughter that is extremely noisy and funny.

ripple of laughter

Describes laughter spreading softly through a group.

chuckle of amusement

Describes the expression of an amused sentiment.

fit of giggles

Implies uncontrollable and childish laughter.

FAQs

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

You can use "peal of laughter" to describe a loud, ringing burst of laughter, such as: "A "peal of laughter" erupted from the audience after the comedian's joke."

What's a good alternative to "peal of laughter"?

Alternatives include "burst of laughter", "roar of laughter", or "gales of laughter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "peal of laughter" is appropriate in formal writing when you want to vividly describe a particularly loud and joyful instance of laughter. Its use depends on the overall tone and style of the piece.

What's the difference between "peal of laughter" and "fit of laughter"?

"Peal of laughter" refers to the sound and resonance of the laughter, whereas "fit of laughter" describes an uncontrollable episode of laughing. You might say someone was in a "fit of laughter" that produced a "peal of laughter".