# farce

/ˈfɑɹs/ (US) · /fˈɑːs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/farce
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a situation or event that is so disorganized or silly that it is hard to take seriously. It also refers to a type of funny play where characters get into ridiculous situations.

For teachers: a light dramatic work marked by improbable situations and exaggerated characters; by extension, an absurd or hollow event. Often used to describe a process that has lost all credibility.

## Examples

- The trial was a complete farce from start to finish.
- The election turned into a farce when several candidates were disqualified just hours before the polls opened.
- What began as a serious diplomatic effort quickly devolved into a farce, as neither side was willing to acknowledge the basic facts of the dispute.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used with the indefinite article ('a farce') when referring to a specific situation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.