шутка ли

• ШУТКА ЛИ; ШУТКА (ЛИ) СКАЗАТЬ{{}}all coll

[these forms only; sent adv, parenth (all variants); indep. clause or predic with subj: infin (1st var.); fixed WO]

=====

⇒ it is very important, serious, not a trifle (because it may have serious consequences, is a significant accomplishment etc; sometimes used to express surprise at or admiration of the importance of sth.):

- it's no joke;

- it's no laughing (small) matter;

- [in limited contexts] seriously.

     ♦ Как только разносится слух, что в лагерь едет Громов, поднимается страшный переполох. Шутка ли, сам Громов! (Марченко 1). As soon as word goes round that Gromov is on his way to the camp there's a terrible hustle and bustle. It's no joke-Gromov in person! (1a).

     ♦ "Шутка ли, целая жизнь дана нам для собственного испытания, и даже если мы её плохо начали, есть время всё исправить!" (Искандер 5). "Seriously, a whole life is given us for self-examination, and even if we have begun badly, there is time to rectify all!" (5a).