Meaning
To be a serious or important issue.
Cultural Background
In Spain, the phrase is often used to contrast with 'el cachondeo' (partying/joking). It is a way to demand 'seriedad' in a culture that values social humor. Mexicans often use humor as a coping mechanism (even for death), but 'no es cosa de risa' is used when a boundary is crossed and real danger is present. In Argentina, where political and economic crises are frequent, this phrase is a staple in news commentary and dinner-table debates. Colombians are known for their extreme politeness. Using this phrase is a way to be firm and serious without being overtly rude.
Use it to pivot
Use this phrase when you want to change the tone of a meeting from casual to serious. It commands immediate attention.
Don't overdo it
If you use it for small things, people will stop taking your warnings seriously.
Meaning
To be a serious or important issue.
Use it to pivot
Use this phrase when you want to change the tone of a meeting from casual to serious. It commands immediate attention.
Don't overdo it
If you use it for small things, people will stop taking your warnings seriously.
Test Yourself
Completa la frase con la forma correcta del idiom.
Perder el pasaporte en un país extranjero no ________ de risa.
The idiom always uses the verb 'ser'.
Selecciona la situación donde es más apropiado usar 'no ser cosa de risa'.
¿En qué situación usarías esta frase?
The phrase is used for serious problems, like a large debt.
Completa el diálogo.
A: '¡Mira qué gracioso! El gato se ha comido mis pastillas para la tensión.' B: '¡Oye! ¡________! Tenemos que llevarlo al veterinario ahora.'
The situation is dangerous for the cat, so it's not a laughing matter.
Empareja la frase con su significado.
Une los conceptos.
These are synonyms or related concepts.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesPerder el pasaporte en un país extranjero no ________ de risa.
The idiom always uses the verb 'ser'.
¿En qué situación usarías esta frase?
The phrase is used for serious problems, like a large debt.
A: '¡Mira qué gracioso! El gato se ha comido mis pastillas para la tensión.' B: '¡Oye! ¡________! Tenemos que llevarlo al veterinario ahora.'
The situation is dangerous for the cat, so it's not a laughing matter.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are synonyms or related concepts.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss or with your best friend.
Yes, but it's less common than saying 'es de risa' or 'hace risa'. Usually, it's used in the negative.
'No es broma' means 'I am not joking'. 'No es cosa de risa' means 'The situation itself is serious'.
No, the phrase is fixed as 'no es cosa de risa', even if you are talking about multiple problems.
Related Phrases
No ser moco de pavo
similarTo be something of importance.
Ir en serio
synonymTo be serious about something.
No estar para bromas
relatedTo not be in the mood for jokes.
Ser harina de otro costal
contrastTo be a different matter entirely.
