preposterous
What does "preposterous" mean?
"Preposterous" describes something that is so completely contrary to reason, common sense, or reality that it borders on the absurd. Think of the mental image of a person trying to carry an elephant in a backpack; the sheer impossibility and ridiculousness of the idea is exactly what makes it preposterous. In usage, this word carries a strong sense of indignation or disbelief. It is more formal and forceful than just saying something is "silly" or "wrong." It is frequently used in professional or intellectual arguments to dismiss an idea that the speaker considers fundamentally flawed or logically offensive.
"preposterous" in conversation
Debating a wild idea
He suggested we solve the budget crisis by selling the office furniture.
He suggested we solve the budget crisis by selling the office furniture.
That is absolutely preposterous. Where are we supposed to sit?
That is absolutely preposterous. Where are we supposed to sit?
Used here to shut down a nonsensical suggestion.
Discussing a movie plot
The hero somehow survives a plane crash by jumping out with an umbrella.
The hero somehow survives a plane crash by jumping out with an umbrella.
That is preposterous! The writers aren't even trying to be realistic anymore.
That is preposterous! The writers aren't even trying to be realistic anymore.
Used to express frustration with an illogical plot point.
"preposterous" in a sentence
The idea that we could finish the project in an hour is preposterous.
The idea that we could finish the project in an hour is preposterous.
She dismissed his preposterous claims with a wave of her hand.
She dismissed his preposterous claims with a wave of her hand.
It is preposterous to assume that a single policy change can rectify decades of systemic mismanagement.
It is preposterous to assume that a single policy change can rectify decades of systemic mismanagement.
