The ridiculous is extravagant or absurd.
The term ridiculous can have two different etymological roots, which give it different meanings as recognized by the dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy ( RAE ).
On the one hand, ridiculous can come from reticŭlus , a Latin word. In this case, the notion refers to a handbag that women used to carry certain minor belongings, such as handkerchiefs.
More common is the use of the word ridiculous when it is taken as a derivation of ridicŭlus : ridiculous then becomes something extravagant, strange or peculiar . For example: “I would never wear such ridiculous pants,” “I don't understand why the singer now dresses ridiculously, if when she started her career she was very elegant,” “I consulted her about her son's activity and she gave me a ridiculous answer that I didn't understand."
The ridiculous, something absurd
The ridiculous, therefore, can be something absurd that provokes ridicule. A man who attends a wedding wearing a purple shirt with yellow polka dots may be described as ridiculous since said clothing is outlandish and does not respect the basic criteria of elegance.
It is very important to point out that the notion of ridicule is absolutely subjective, so it is not possible to know whether the person labeled in this way will suffer or not until we know them and know what they think about the opinions of others. Many comedians resort to a style that is based on self-deprecation to achieve fame and popularity: they do all kinds of things that make them ridiculous, they tell stories that leave them in a bad light, they appear intentionally clumsy or unattractive, and it is thanks to these tactics that make a living and achieve your dreams.
It is common for the ridiculous to generate laughter.
From acceptance to rejection
Therefore, a famous comedian is not very likely to feel hurt if he is called ridiculous. The case of a person who cares a lot about the way others perceive their image is different; The student stage is where the expectations that each individual has of society can first be evident, since they begin to actively form part of it, and "ridiculous" is one of the least hurtful terms that children use to verbally attack their peers. companions, although that does not mean that it does not cause pain.
As in all cases, words have a negative weight only if they manage to penetrate our weak points: if a person puts effort into preparing a presentation to present an idea in front of his co-workers and when he finishes they tell him what he has done ridicule, it is likely that there is emotional damage; If, on the other hand, a comedian is told that they have "never met someone so ridiculous," it may be a compliment , the exact words they expected to hear in response to their shows.
The ridiculous and the null value
The adjective is also applied to something of reduced value or that has no estimation : “They offered me a ridiculous salary so I rejected the proposal,” “The deputy presented a ridiculous project, which cannot be put into practice in any way.”
Similarly, it is possible to use the adjective "ridiculous" and the noun "ridiculousness" to describe a situation that seems absurd or unacceptable to us , generally with a negative connotation or in the context of a strong discussion. For example, after a very compromising accusation , the interlocutor may disqualify it by stating that it is ridiculous.
Ridiculous, finally, can be used as a noun in relation to the situation or condition of a person in certain contexts: “I prefer not to sing in public since I don't like making a fool of myself,” “If you continue making a fool of yourself you will no longer be able to complain about it.” that no one wants to be in public with you .