Be no joke

usgb
phrase

Something is hard, serious, or intense.

The math exam was no joke, I had to study non-stop for a week.
Visual representation of "be no joke" - Something is hard, serious, or intense

Often appears as...

  • this is no joke
  • that was no joke

Usage tips

Colloquial, Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "be no joke"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Intensity Highlight

Use 'be no joke' to emphasize the difficulty or demanding nature of a situation or task.

Illustration for Intensity Highlight
Training for a marathon is no joke; it takes serious commitment.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Use

It's mostly used in conversational settings; not suitable for very formal writing.

Illustration for Colloquial Use
The workload this semester is no joke, huh?
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Impact

Expresses frustration or respect regarding the challenge faced.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
Completing that project on time was no joke; I barely slept.
Visual representation of the word "Be no joke"

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