in what world

English

Etymology

Use of a reference to alternative realities to imply that the thing criticized is inconsistent with our own reality.

Prepositional phrase

in what world

  1. How. (used in rhetorical questions to criticize something as completely inconsistent with reality and/or logic).
    • 2005, Chicago journal of international law, volume 6, page 635:
      In what world is it "wholly unconscionable and politically unpalatable" to deny Nigeria a Security Council veto?
    • 2014, Joseph R. Lallo, The Other Eight, volume 1:
      In what world is the ability to be attacked by bees on command a superpower?
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