be no joke

be no joke

1. To be a serious and important topic or situation. Your grades are no joke. Unless you want to repeat the ninth grade, you need to start studying.2. To be impressive, especially moreso than one or others originally thought. Wow, this restaurant is no joke. All the great reviews were right. This boxer is no joke. You've got to take him seriously or you'll find yourself knocked out.See also: joke, no

be no ˈjoke

be serious or difficult: Trying to find a job nowadays is no joke.It’s no joke living on such a small income.See also: joke, no