Not know whether to laugh or cry

usgb
phrase

To be unsure how to react to something, especially when finding a situation both funny and sad.

When she told me about her disastrous date, I didn't know whether to laugh or cry.
Visual representation of "not know whether to laugh or cry" - To be unsure how to react to something, especially when finding a situation both funny and sad.

Often appears as...

  • didn't know whether to laugh or cry
  • don't know whether to laugh or cry
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "not know whether to laugh or cry"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Mixed Emotions

Use when feeling a strong blend of contradicting emotions, and you're puzzled about how to express them.

Illustration for Mixed Emotions
After watching the bittersweet ending of the movie, I didn't know whether to laugh or cry.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Unexpected Situations

Best used in scenarios that are so absurd or unusual that they trigger conflicting feelings.

Illustration for Unexpected Situations
He painted his house rainbow colors; I didn't know whether to laugh or cry.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Hyperbolic Expression

It's an exaggeration to stress the emotional confusion and isn't always taken literally.

Illustration for Hyperbolic Expression
She arrived at the party in a chicken costume - I didn't know whether to laugh or cry.
Visual representation of the word "Not know whether to laugh or cry"

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