Laugh at Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈɫæf/ /ˈæt

LAF-at

UK

lˈɑːf/ /ˈæt

LAAF-at

Definition

To make fun of someone or something, often in a mean or mocking way. It can also mean to find something so silly that you can't help but laugh about it.

Usage & Nuances

Usually implies making fun of someone in a negative or mocking way. Common with people ('laugh at someone'), situations ('laugh at a mistake'), or actions. Not the same as 'laugh with' (which is friendly). Can be considered rude or hurtful.

• Spanish: reírse de
• Portuguese (BR): rir de
• Portuguese (PT): rir de
• Chinese (Simplified): 嘲笑
• Chinese (Traditional): 嘲笑
• Hindi: का मज़ाक उड़ाना
• Arabic: يضحك على
• Bengali: উপহাস করা - বিদ্রূপ করা
• Russian: смеяться над - насмехаться над
• Japanese: 笑う（からかう意味） - 嘲笑する
• Vietnamese: cười nhạo - cười chê
• Korean: 비웃다 - 조롱하다
• Turkish: alay etmek - gülmek (alaycı)
• Urdu: ہنسنا (مذاق کرنا) - ٹھٹھا کرنا
• Indonesian: menertawakan - mengejek

Example Sentences

The other kids laughed at his new haircut.

basic

Don’t laugh at her mistakes.

basic

They laughed at my old shoes.

basic

I can laugh at myself when I do something silly.

natural

People used to laugh at the idea, but now everyone believes it.

natural

If you’re going to laugh at me, at least do it to my face.

natural