Definition

Adverb: * In a manner that is so absurd, unreasonable, or contrary to common sense that it becomes ridiculous or laughable.

Usage

"Preposterously" is used to modify a verb, adjective, or another adverb to emphasize the extreme and ridiculous nature of a situation, claim, or characteristic. It suggests something is beyond the bounds of reason.

Examples

• The villain's plan was preposterously complicated and bound to fail.
• He was paid a preposterously high salary for very little work.
• The claim that the earth is flat is preposterously false.
• She argued preposterously that cats make better drivers than humans.

Advanced Usage

• "preposterously + adjective": This is the most common construction, used to intensify an adjective to an absurd degree.
  • The diamond was preposterously large.
  • The task was preposterously difficult.
• It can be used for humorous or sarcastic effect to critique an idea or situation by highlighting its inherent silliness.

Variants and Related Words

• Preposterous (adjective): Describing the absurd quality itself.
  • That is a preposterous idea.
• Preposterousness (noun): The state or quality of being preposterous.
  • The preposterousness of his argument was evident to everyone.

Synonyms

• Absurdly
• Ridiculously
• Ludicrously
• Outrageously (in the sense of being shockingly excessive)
• Laughably (as in the reference context, meaning so much so that it invites laughter)

Antonyms

• Reasonably
• Sensibly
• Plausibly
• Believably

Adverb

1. so as to arouse or deserve laughter
   • her income was laughably small, but she managed to live well