subject of derision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subject of derision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is mocked or ridiculed by others. Example: "His unusual fashion choices made him the subject of derision among his peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

"It was a subject of derision and contempt," he recalled.

The New Yorker

Their opening number, which spoofed the year's top movies, was the subject of derision.

Independent

Instead, in Greater Suburbia, it is the short poppies who will be the subject of derision and contempt.

The Guardian - Opinion

The project has been the subject of derision and disbelief across social media, decried as "absolutely terrible" by national heritage body Hispania Nostra.

The Guardian - Arts

But after they were caught, they became a subject of derision for having made it only as far as Pipestem, W.Va., 350 miles away.

The New York Times

But after they were caught, they became a subject of derision for having made it only as far as Pipestem, W.Va., just 350 miles away.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

We don't bow to airplane pilots the way we once did (except, perhaps, Sully), and Presidents are more the subjects of derision than idolatry.

The New Yorker

They became the subjects of derision when it emerged that their lifeboat carried only 12 people, including seven crew members, despite having room for 40.

The Guardian

Some of the stadiums being built for the World Cup soccer tournament, scheduled for next year, have also been criticized for delays and cost overruns, and have become subjects of derision as protesters question whether they will become white elephants.

The New York Times

The festival's publicity campaign, however, has also been the subject of some derision.

The New York Times

Among the tightknit fraternity of hockey scouts, Rosen's drafting has been the subject of debate, derision and rumors.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "subject of derision", consider the intensity of the mockery. If the situation involves lighter teasing, consider using alternatives like "butt of jokes" or "figure of fun".

Common error

Avoid using "subject of derision" in casual conversations or informal writing where it may sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for more natural phrases like "made fun of" or "laughed at".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subject of derision" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. As evidenced by Ludwig, it describes something or someone that is being ridiculed or mocked.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "subject of derision" is a versatile and frequently used expression to indicate that someone or something is being mocked or ridiculed. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, as highlighted by Ludwig, it maintains a neutral to formal tone, making it suitable for objective reporting and critical analysis. While grammatically sound and widely understood, its use should be carefully considered in informal settings where it may come across as overly formal. Alternatives such as "object of ridicule" and "target of mockery" can provide similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. Understanding these nuances allows for more precise and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

object of ridicule

Focuses on the act of ridiculing, similar to "subject of derision" but emphasizes the active process.

target of mockery

Highlights the intentional aspect of mockery, indicating a deliberate act of making fun.

butt of jokes

Implies the person or thing is the central figure in humorous stories or jokes.

laughingstock

Suggests someone or something that is widely considered ridiculous.

source of amusement

Indicates that someone or something unintentionally provides entertainment through their perceived flaws or oddities.

figure of fun

Similar to "butt of jokes", implying a harmless or playful form of derision.

victim of ridicule

Emphasizes the negative consequences of being ridiculed, suggesting a more severe impact.

object of scorn

Highlights the feeling of contempt and disdain directed toward someone or something.

scapegoat

Suggests that someone is unfairly blamed and ridiculed for the faults of others.

cause for jeering

Implies a public display of disapproval and mockery, often involving loud and aggressive behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "subject of derision" in a sentence?

You can use "subject of derision" to indicate that someone or something is being mocked or ridiculed. For example, "The politician's proposal became the "subject of derision" after the public discovered its hidden costs."

What can I say instead of "subject of derision"?

You can use alternatives like "object of ridicule", "target of mockery", or "butt of jokes" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "subject of derision" or "object of ridicule"?

Both "subject of derision" and "object of ridicule" are grammatically correct and convey similar meanings. The choice depends on stylistic preference, though "subject of derision" may sound slightly more formal.

What is the difference between "subject of derision" and "scapegoat"?

"Subject of derision" implies general mockery, while "scapegoat" suggests that someone is unfairly blamed and ridiculed for the faults of others. A "scapegoat" is not just mocked, but also held responsible for problems they may not have caused.