Words / A2

NONSNS/ˈnɒnsns/

Nonsense is silly or untrue talk: talk nonsense, complete nonsense, a load of nonsense. Rubbish can mean the same in British English for ideas. Sense is almost the opposite idea. Uncountable in this meaning (not “a nonsense” except in a few set phrases). Do not write nonsense when you mean nuisance (something annoying).

Meaning

Ideas or words that are silly or not true.

Examples

• “That story about the haunted bus is nonsense.”
• “Ignore that rumour — it is complete nonsense.”
• “He talks nonsense when he is tired.”

Good to know

talk nonsense / complete nonsense. British cousin: rubbish. Mix-up: nuisance.

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