What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ludicrous
Example
The idea of a flying car is ludicrous. [ludicrous: adjective]
Example
It's ludicrous to think that aliens are living among us. [ludicrous: adjective]
ridiculous
Example
It's ridiculous to wear a winter coat in the middle of summer. [ridiculous: adjective]
Example
The politician's claim that he can cure cancer with a magic potion is absolutely ridiculous. [ridiculous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ridiculous is more commonly used than ludicrous in everyday language. Ridiculous is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ludicrous is less common and may be considered more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ludicrous and ridiculous?
While ludicrous can have a slightly more formal tone, both words can be used in both formal and informal contexts.