raise a laugh/smile

raise a laugh

To cause someone or an audience to laugh. Don't try too hard to raise a laugh during your speech. You're here to inform people, not entertain them.

See also: laugh, raise

raise a smile

To cause someone or a group to smile. I tried making a joke, but everyone was so disheartened by the news that it didn't even raise a smile.

See also: raise, smile

raise a ˈlaugh/ˈsmile

do or say something that makes other people laugh/smile: If the speeches are not going well, ask Paula to speak; she can always raise a laugh. ♢ His jokes didn’t even raise a smile, which was embarrassing.

See also: laugh, raise, smile