be/get/go 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.

See also: beyond, get, joke

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

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