The expression "get last laugh" means to ultimately succeed or get revenge in a situation where one was initially ridiculed or dismissed. The spelling of "last laugh" is straightforward, but the word "get" can be confusing in terms of pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /ɡɛt/, with a hard "g" sound as in "go" and a short "e" vowel sound as in "pet." Memorizing the correct spelling can help avoid pronunciation errors.
To "get the last laugh" is an idiom that refers to achieving ultimate satisfaction or vindication over someone or something that initially caused harm or humiliation. The phrase implies that, despite initial setbacks or ridicule, the person or entity ultimately prevails or succeeds and proves their detractors wrong. This idiom is often used to describe situations where the individual who faced adversity, mockery, or criticism ends up triumphing in the end, thereby having the final say or ultimate victory.
The phrase can also allude to a situation where a person's wise outlook, resilience, or cleverness leads to a positive outcome that leaves their adversaries humbled, bowed, or regretful. "Getting the last laugh" often suggests a sense of poetic justice or satisfaction in outwitting, outperforming, or surpassing the expectations of others, especially those who doubted the individual's abilities or intentions.
This idiom is often used in casual conversations, literature, and media to portray scenarios where an underdog or marginalized person eventually prevails against more powerful opponents or situations. It embodies the notion that true success or triumph is not merely measured by initial setbacks but by the ultimate outcome. Thus, "getting the last laugh" signifies claiming victory or satisfaction after initially being the subject of ridicule, mockery, or doubt.