“From the sublime to the ridiculous (is only a step)”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
The phrase “From the sublime to the ridiculous (is only a step)” suggests that the line between something grand or impressive and something absurd or trivial is often very thin.
Tone The tone of the phrase is often ironic or humorous, highlighting the ease with which something impressive can become absurd.
Where it comes from
The expression, though often linked to Napoleon Bonaparte, who used the phrase “Du sublime au ridicule, il n’y a qu’un pas”, is traced back earlier. It appeared in the works of French historian Jean Francois Marmontel and was later used by Thomas Paine in his work The Age of Reason.
Examples
- The grand opening of the art exhibition turned into a fiasco when the roof started leaking; truly, from the sublime to the ridiculous.
- He went from discussing sophisticated scientific theories to playing with rubber ducks—such a quick step from the sublime to the ridiculous.
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