Street
having a laugh
What does having a laugh mean?
An expression of disbelief that a situation or demand can be serious.
"Fifty quid for that? You're having a laugh."
Origin
British colloquial phrase; strongly associated with London speech.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'having a laugh' mean?
Said of a situation or demand, it expresses disbelief that it could possibly be serious.
How do you use 'having a laugh'?
You'd say 'Fifty quid for that? You're having a laugh' when a price or request strikes you as ridiculous.
Is 'having a laugh' rude?
It's a blunt expression of disbelief but not a swear word or slur, so it's mild rather than offensive.
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Vocabulary Flow — saved to your collection.