French Conversation · Level 87
60 words
French word
grotesque
Pronunciation
IPA/gʁotɛsk/
Meaning
- adjectiveridiculous
Example
C'est vraiment grotesque de dire ça.
It's really ridiculous to say that.
More examples
Son comportement était grotesque aux yeux de tous.
His behavior was ridiculous in everyone's eyes.
Core concept
An exaggerated sight or statement so unnatural that it becomes both ridiculous and startling.
Common phrases
une histoire grotesque
a ridiculous story
un comportement grotesque
ridiculous behavior
une situation grotesque
a ridiculous situation
Similar words
ridicule: Ridiculous enough to make observers laugh or look down on it.
absurde: Contrary to logic or common sense, with no clear coherence.
bizarre: Odd in appearance or behavior in a way that seems curious.
étrange: Unfamiliar and noticeably unlike what is usual.
Definition in French
Qui semble absurde ou ridicule au point de surprendre et de faire rire.
Word origin
The French adjective was borrowed through Italian grottesco, which described the fanciful art found in ancient Roman grottoes.
Usage tips
- Grotesque usually judges a situation, idea, or behavior; applied directly to a person, it can sound sharply insulting.