The joke’s on somebody

usgb
phrase

Used to say that someone's actions have had an unexpected and unpleasant effect on them, rather than the person they were intended to affect.

He was trying to prank his friend by pouring a bucket of water on him, but he mistakenly poured it on himself. Guess the joke's on him!
Visual representation of "the joke’s on somebody" - Used to say that someone's actions have had an unexpected and unpleasant effect on them, rather than the person they were intended to affect.

Often appears as...

  • guess the joke's on...
  • turns out the joke's on...

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "the joke’s on somebody"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Self-Defeating Humor

This phrase often highlights an ironic situation where someone's attempt to be funny at another's expense backfires on themselves.

Illustration for Self-Defeating Humor
He tried to scare his sister with a mask but tripped and fell; the joke's on him.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Unintended Outcome

Use when someone's plan or action has the opposite result of what was intended, especially in humorous or playful contexts.

Illustration for Unintended Outcome
She hid her brother's phone as a joke, but he found her secret diary instead. The joke's on her!
LampPro Tip 3/3

Schadenfreude Caution

It warns of the possibility of finding oneself in an embarrassing situation after trying to embarrass someone else.

Illustration for Schadenfreude Caution
Attempting to trip his friend, he ended up sprawling on the floor himself. The joke's on him!
Visual representation of the word "The joke’s on somebody"

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