funnies
C1Informal, somewhat dated
Definition
Meaning
Comic strips, especially those published in newspapers, or a collection of them.
A humorous or light-hearted feature, situation, or series of jokes. Informally, can refer to the funny bone (elbow) or a feeling of amusement.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily used as a plural noun. The singular 'funny' is not used for a comic strip. The sense of 'amusing things' is more general and less common.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the US, 'the funnies' specifically refers to the comic strip section of a newspaper. In the UK, this term is understood but less common; 'comics' or 'cartoon strips' are more typical.
Connotations
US usage evokes nostalgia for print newspapers. UK usage may sound slightly Americanised.
Frequency
Much more frequent in American English. In contemporary UK English, it is rare and may be considered old-fashioned.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
read + the + funnieslook at + the + funniesthe + funnies + be + in + newspaperVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “hit the funny bone (related to 'funnies' as elbow)”
- “get the funnies (feel amused)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Might appear in publishing or media discussions about newspaper layout.
Academic
Very rare, except in historical or cultural studies of media.
Everyday
Used informally, mainly by older generations recalling childhood routines.
Technical
Not used.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The children like the pictures in the funnies.
- I always read the funnies in the Sunday newspaper.
- The decline of print media has affected the tradition of the Sunday funnies.
- His analysis of mid-century American culture included a study of the social commentary found in the funnies.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'FUN' + 'NEWS' -> the FUN part of the NEWS is the FUNNIES.
Conceptual Metaphor
HUMOUR IS A PHYSICAL OBJECT TO BE CONSUMED (read the funnies, look at the funnies).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating as 'смешные' (funny things). The correct equivalent is 'комиксы' or 'юмористические комиксы в газете'.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'a funny' to mean a single comic strip (incorrect).
- Using it as a singular noun (e.g., 'This funnies is good').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'the funnies' most appropriately used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a plural noun. You say 'the funnies are good today,' not 'is good'.
It's possible but less common, as the term is strongly associated with traditional print newspapers. 'Webcomics' or 'online comics' are more precise.
'Comics' is a broader term that can include comic books and strips. 'The funnies' specifically refers to the comic strip section found in newspapers.
Yes, but its usage is declining alongside print newspapers. It is used more by older generations and carries a nostalgic tone.