risible - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
risible Word Meanings
- capable of causing laughter
- humorous or funny
- absurd or ridiculous
risible Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
risible Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈrɪz.ɪ.bəl/
US
/ˈrɪz.ə.bəl/
risible Word Etymology
Root decomposition: ris- (from Latin 'ridere', to laugh) + -ible (capable of). Historical origin: Latin 'risibilis' → Old French 'risible' → English. Memory image: Imagine a clown trying to juggle, failing hilariously, and making everyone laugh - that's the essence of being risible.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Risible means capable of causing laughter; it describes something that's funny or humorous, but it can also imply absurdity or ridiculousness. The word comes from Latin risibilis, through Old French risible, into English. In modern use it carries a slightly formal or ironic tone, often applied to performances, ideas, or situations that fail or surprise in a way that provokes laughter rather than sincere admiration. The memory image is a clown misthrowing a ball, audience giggling at the sheer ridiculousness. Use risible when you want to acknowledge laughter born from something ridiculous, not just lighthearted amusement.
Usage Reminders
- Use risible for things that provoke laughter because they are absurd or comically poor.
- It often has a formal or ironic tone, not casual praise.
- Describe performances, ideas, or situations that fail in a way that is laughable.
- Avoid using it for everyday, harmless humor; reserve it for sharper critique.
- Pair with nouns like performance, idea, script, or situation to signal a critical laugh.
Common Misconceptions
- Risible does not simply mean funny or entertaining.
- It conveys a critical or ironic evaluation, not casual praise.
- It can describe things as laughable because they are absurd, not just pleasant.
- It is not interchangeable with ridiculous in all contexts.
- It is more common in formal writing than in everyday speech.
Thinking Differences
Risible feels formal or literary to English speakers; learners often treat it as a stronger 'funny' and may misapply it to everyday compliments. Remember it signals laughter caused by absurdity or poor quality, not simply pleasant humor.
Learning Tips
- Learn the nuance: compare risible with ridiculous and funny to feel the formal edge.
- Practice with nouns: a risible performance, a risible idea.
- Notice the tone: near-formal or ironic, not casual praise.
- Use in writing: try it in a critique or review to sound sophisticated.
- Avoid overuse: reserve for truly laughable absurdity.
- Create contrasts: describe two scenes, one risible, one merely funny.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'risible'?
A.A new technology
B.A type of bird
C.Easily provoked to laughter
D.A literary genre
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'risible' correctly?
A.The risible error in his calculations cost him the game.
B.Her risible painting was displayed in the museum.
C.He found the comedian's risible jokes quite entertaining.
D.The risible dog barked loudly.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is the synonym of 'risible'?
A.Sombre
B.Serious
C.Amusing
D.Solemn
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'risible'?
A.Serious
B.Jocular
C.Humorous
D.Lighthearted
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might find something risible?
A.During a serious meeting, someone made a funny joke about cats.
B.The documentary on climate change was quite risible and informative.
C.She watched a heartfelt drama that left her in tears.
D.The politician delivered a serious speech about economic growth.
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