He didn't see the funny side.

3rd July 2024

He didn't see the funny side.

We use this expression to say that someone doesn’t think that something negative can also be funny. We also use this expression to say that someone is very serious and doesn’t laugh about a situation.
IH Bristol Phrase of the Day: He didn't see the funny side
Usage
Written: 
Yes
Spoken: 
Yes
Formal: 
No
Informal: 
Yes
Example 1
Oh dear, I feel so bad. I stole Rachel’s car keys for a joke and she got really angry.
She didn’t see the funny side of it?
No, not at all! She was so angry.
Example 2
Some people say that he doesn’t see the funny side of things. What do you think?
Actually he seems quite relaxed to me.
I agree. I think he’s quite open to laughing.