Cool MateLaugh
UK /["/lɑːf/","/lɑːfs/","/lɑːft/","/ˈlɑːfɪŋ/"]/US /["/læf/","/læfs/","/læft/","/ˈlæfɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to make the sounds and movements of your face that show you think something is funny or silly
In simple words: To make a sound when you are happy or think something is funny.
Examples
- The children laughed at the funny clown.
- We all laughed when he told that silly joke.
- She couldn't help but laugh loudly at the movie.
- Every time I see that picture, I have to laugh.
- They laughed together, enjoying each other's company.
Usage notes
Used in most contexts, but be cautious with humor in formal settings. It might seem inappropriate to laugh at serious situations.
Grammar pattern
laugh + at + object
Memory hint
Think of 'laugh' like 'laughing gas' — it makes you smile and feel light.
Collocations
- aloud
- loudly
- out loud
- have to
- want to
- begin to
- about
- at
- in
- burst out laughing
- bust out laughing
- can’t help laughing
Synonyms
- giggle
- chuckle
- snicker
- cackle
- howl
Antonyms
- cry
- sorrow
- frown
Common mistakes
- Using 'laugh' without an object when it needs one, e.g., 'I laugh' instead of 'I laugh at the joke.'
- Confusing 'laugh' with similar verbs like 'smile' or 'giggle'.
- 'Laugh off' is often misused; it means to dismiss something lightly.