"nonsense" idioms...
See also, a list of phrases that relate in some way to the word nonsense
" A load of cobblers "
Meaning:
Nonsense.
Example:
He says he has invented a perpetual motion machine, which is clearly a load of cobblers.
Where did it originate?:
The United Kingdom.
Where is it used?:
Widely used, especially in the UK. Slang and borderline swearing - not one for your Grandma.
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" A load of codswallop "
Meaning:
Nonsense.
Example:
You can’t keep champagne fresh by putting a spoon in the neck of the bottle - that’s a load of codswallop.
Where did it originate?:
The United Kingdom.
Where is it used?:
Mostly used in the UK but known elsewhere too. Mostly used by the older generation.
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" Fiddlesticks "
Meaning:
An exclamation meaning 1. Nonsense; rubbish. 2. An indication of mild annoyance.
Example:
1. You say you can run 100 yards in 10 seconds. I say fiddlesticks. 2. Oh fiddlesticks! that's the third time I've been caught by that speed trap going just over 30 mph.
Where did it originate?:
Britain - 17th century. The term derives from the slang name of a violin bow, that is, a fiddle stick.
Where is it used?:
Britain - but only by the older generation.
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" Mumbo jumbo "
Meaning:
Nonsense or meaningless speech.
Example:
His speech about magical phenomenology seemed to make sense at the time but now I realise it was just mumbo-jumbo.
Where did it originate?:
Britain , 18th century. Deriving from an African source.
Where is it used?:
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