sense of humour failure

When someone either finds an obvious joke offensive or takes it dead serious, they are said to have had a "sense of humour" failure.

However, it cannot be applied to those who never had a sense of humour to start with.

This condition is more common amongst the grumpy, tired and irrationally angry sects of society, with the most common manifestation being women on their period or guys whose girlfriend is on their period.

That easyJet lady had a sense of humour failure when you asked if your "little" 16 year-old son counted for the priority boarding.

I don't think so. I think she had no sense of humour to start with.

Yeah, or it is that time of the month for her. That could explain her sense of humour failure.

by Legend_Killerz January 23, 2011

Sense of Humour Failure Face

When someone has taken a joke the wrong way and their expression on their face is all you need to confirm this. This can also be applied when due to being in public (e.g. live TV or in front of friends) they can't say they are annoyed but they can't hide it from their facial expression.

Husband - 'You know your that dress looks a bit tight for you darling'
Wife - (Sense of Humour Failure Face) '....'
Husband - 'Is that my phone ringing upstairs... I'm just going to check' (runs away)

by Maxctran April 28, 2016

sense of humour failure

A phrase used by a manager as an awkward semi-apology after they lose their temper at their employees. This is the closest to an apology you're likely to get.

Prevalent in the UK tech and consulting sector.

(after boss has stopped shouting obscenities at their staff)
"I'm afraid I've had a sense of humour failure..."

by QuartermasterGeralt June 3, 2020