Silly is used to describe things or behaviour that are stupid in a childish way. This word is not as offensive as stupid, and is often used when talking to children, or to someone who is acting like a child.
- Stop jumping into the puddles. Thatโs a silly thing to do.
- You canโt lift that bag alone. Donโt be silly and let me help you.
- Iโm so silly. I forgot to buy the tickets.
Ridiculous means extremely silly, but itโs not used in a friendly way. When something is ridiculous, it often makes you laugh, because itโs so inappropriate or unreasonable.
- I look ridiculous with this haircut. Iโll never listen to my hairdresser again.
- You canโt pay her a hundred pounds for this job. Donโt be ridiculous.
- Why did you tell everyone I failed my driving test? You made me look ridiculous.
Absurd is used to describe something that cannot be taken seriously, because it is not logical or sensible. Itโs something that is funny because it is so impossible.
- I wonโt pay back your loan. Thatโs an absurd request.
- Itโs absurd Iโm not allowed to talk to my own children.
- Peter told me an absurd story of how his pet parrot ate his homework.
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