get beyond a joke

get beyond a joke

To become very alarming. Her illness has gotten beyond a joke now—the doctors say she's in critical condition. Residents are worried that the infestation will get beyond a joke and leave their small town positively overrun with the invasive insects. Didn't you watch the weather report? This storm got beyond a joke as soon as it moved inland!

See also: beyond, get, joke

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

get (or be) beyond a joke

become (or be) something that is serious or worrying. informal

2002 Guardian The rogue animal is believed to have attacked at least six residents in the past week, and his antics are now described by residents as ‘well beyond a joke’.

See also: beyond, get, joke

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

be/get/go beyond a ˈjoke

be no longer funny; be serious: This has got beyond a joke! Open this door and let me out at once! ♢ The state of the roads in this country is beyond a joke.

See also: beyond, get, go, joke

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017