Be no laughing matter

usgb
phrase

Something serious and not a topic for jokes.

Unemployment rates are rising rapidly, it's no laughing matter.
Visual representation of "be no laughing matter" - Something serious and not a topic for jokes

Often appears as...

  • it's no laughing matter
  • this is no laughing matter

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "be no laughing matter"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Weight

Use to express concern or empathy towards serious situations.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
After the hurricane, finding shelter for everyone is no laughing matter.
LampPro Tip 2/3

No Humor

Highlighting that humor is inappropriate when discussing the subject.

Illustration for No Humor
When she spoke about her illness, I realized it was no laughing matter.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Issue Severity

Indicates the issue should be taken very seriously.

Illustration for Issue Severity
The company's bankruptcy is no laughing matter to the employees.
Visual representation of the word "Be no laughing matter"

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