to meet the most basic criteria for logic, plausibility, or probability, generally phrased in the negative, as in “I’m not sure that predicting a fivefold increase in sales next year will pass the laugh test”; the expression metaphorically gauges if someone hearing a statement for the first time would involuntarily burst into laughter due to its sheer absurdity; can be used when discussion or analysis has become so inward-focused that a dose of common sense is needed; in some instances failing this test may be desirable, as in the creation of stretch goals designed to spur fundamental changes in thinking or approach; similar to pass the smell test or sniff test, which is a milder form used for less extreme cases