ridicule

USAGE SUMMARY

"ridicule" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is a verb meaning to make fun of or laugh at someone or something in an unkind way. Example sentence: The bullies ridiculed the new student for his awkwardness.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In Athens, news of the undercover tax agents was quick to spark ridicule and widespread disbelief.

The Guardian

Blatter is said, rather, to have been wounded by the worldwide media ridicule and criticism, including in his comfortable Zurich home turf, by the heated contempt from European football associations and the rumblings of sponsors concerned, as ever, with the impact on their own brands.

The Guardian - Sport

And of course the explanation is in the ridicule.

The Guardian

So next week, on their private beaches, the players will wonder what kind of punishment awaits a Brazilian who has exposed his nation to ridicule and ignominy on a day when the world had gathered to watch them showing off.

The Guardian - Sport

His claims drew immediate criticism and ridicule under a hashtag mocking the channel's comments, with many taking the opportunity to unearth inaccurate reports on Fox News.

The Guardian

In the immediate aftermath of the Mumbai attacks, the public is beginning to look upon its government with both anger and ridicule.

The Guardian

After all, Miliband's geekiness provides an embarrassment of riches to those seeking his ridicule.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even after the international ridicule his St Patrick's day video wrought, he couldn't help himself.

The Guardian - Opinion

In the depths of the last downturn, in December 1991, he told a Tory party conference: "The green shoots of economic recovery are appearing once again" - only to be greeted with ridicule and contempt.

The Guardian - Business

Related: Turkmenistan president wins re-election with 97% of vote But President Berdymukhamedov – and this is where he may leave himself open to ridicule – has now been awarded another title: the "People's Horse Breeder", which does not have quite the same Cromwellian ring.

The Guardian - Opinion

Turkey's president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has hit back at ridicule of his claim that Islamic explorers discovered the Americas three centuries before Columbus, accusing his Muslim critics of lacking "self-confidence".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ridicule" when you want to express strong disapproval or mockery of someone or something. It's effective in highlighting the absurdity or foolishness of a subject.

Common error

Don't use "ridicule" when simple disagreement or criticism is more appropriate. Overusing it can make your tone seem overly harsh or aggressive when a milder expression would suffice.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "ridicule" is as both a noun and a verb. As Ludwig confirms, it is used to express the act of making someone or something the object of scornful laughter or mockery. Examples from Ludwig show its use in news, opinion, and academic contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ridicule" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and a verb, used to express scorn and mockery. According to Ludwig, the word is grammatically correct and is employed across diverse contexts, especially in News & Media. While synonyms like "mockery", "derision", and "scorn" exist, "ridicule" carries a specific nuance suitable for highlighting absurdity or flaws. Understanding its appropriate usage ensures your communication remains both impactful and precise. Remember not to overuse it in cases where a simple disageement or criticism is what you need, as that will cause your tone to sound too aggressive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mockery

Focuses more on the act of imitating someone to make fun of them.

derision

Highlights the contemptuous or scornful aspect of making fun of someone.

scorn

Emphasizes the feeling of contempt or disdain.

contempt

Indicates a feeling of disrespect and intense dislike.

jeering

Specifically refers to loud, rude comments or shouts.

taunting

Involves provoking or challenging someone with insulting remarks.

satire

Uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices.

lampooning

Publicly criticizes someone or something by using ridicule, irony, or sarcasm.

making fun of

A more informal and general way of expressing the act of ridiculing.

laughing at

Another informal expression, emphasizing the audible aspect of ridicule.

FAQs

How can I use "ridicule" in a sentence?

"Ridicule" can be used as a noun or a verb. For example: "His idea was met with ridicule" (noun), or "They ridiculed his efforts" (verb).

What are some synonyms for "ridicule"?

Alternatives to "ridicule" include "mockery", "derision", "scorn", and "contempt".

Is it appropriate to use "ridicule" in formal writing?

While "ridicule" is a valid word, consider your audience and the context. In some formal settings, a more measured critique might be more appropriate. Think about using it when you intend to highlight an extreme flaw.

What is the difference between "ridicule" and "criticism"?

"Criticism" generally involves pointing out flaws or areas for improvement, while "ridicule" is more about mocking or making fun of something, often with the intent to humiliate. Criticism is constructive, ridicule is destructive.