A euphemism for the practice of some professional comedians to wade into serious discussions on political, economic and or/ social issues and take firm stances, only to fall back on the excuse that they're "just a comedian" whenever their views are challenged or refuted. Usually used as "clown nose on/clown nose off" to illustrate the switch a comedian performs between trying to be taken seriously as a pundit and trying to deflect any actual debate by claiming to be a jokester.
Comic: *clown nose off* "And that's why I sincerely believe that we need to pass new laws to eliminate unemployment!"
Guest: "But 0% unemployment would drive up wages due to the lack of available workers to fill jobs, which would cause a ripple effect that raised the cost of goods and services."
Comic: *clown nose on* "...Look, pal, I just host a late-night comedy show. If you're taking this seriously, there must be something wrong with you! Ah-WOCKA-WOCKA!"
Guest: "But 0% unemployment would drive up wages due to the lack of available workers to fill jobs, which would cause a ripple effect that raised the cost of goods and services."
Comic: *clown nose on* "...Look, pal, I just host a late-night comedy show. If you're taking this seriously, there must be something wrong with you! Ah-WOCKA-WOCKA!"
by Lex Logic April 25, 2019
A derogatory colloquial term to describe a person whose education and areas of expertise are based solely in the humanities, yet somehow ends up in a position of power and/or authority that requires a much more concrete skill set. Tends to use obfuscation and snark whenever pressed to demonstrate actual competence in their job, and usually responds to dismissal by posting video of themselves crying to social media. Invariably first to go in the private sector when workforce reductions hit, but can often thrive and even enjoy lifetime reelections to public office.
"Did you see that clip of the deputy mayor cursing out people and throwing her microphone at the town hall? This is why you don't vote for theater kids, people."
by Lex Logic March 14, 2025