a load of idiots

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a load of idiots" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used informally to express disdain or criticism towards a group of people perceived as foolish or incompetent. Example: "I can't believe they made that decision; it's just a load of idiots running the company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"At one point he said: 'This sounds like a load of idiots fucking around on synths,'" Skelly says.

The Guardian - Music

There have been so many episodes of Come Dine With Me that the show knows where its strength lies – getting a load of idiots in a room together and letting Dave Lamb shriek at them.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's a judgment call, but if you choose not to dump a load of chili into it as well, then you're probably an idiot.

Vice

" I find it a bit hard… I kind of think that they don't know what I'm going through… I don't think you have a mind to tell you the truth, especially when you're drinking you feel like an idiot talking about it because you're only telling a load of lies" (Patient 5.3).

BMC Family Practice

SInevitably to get the best of VICE Canada deloadred straight tofyour inbox.

Vice

Nothing screams complete idiot more than the sight of a middle-aged man with a load of expensive gadgets.

The Guardian

What a load of baloney.

Independent

A load of cobblers".

The Guardian - Arts

A load of horse manure.

The New Yorker

"What a load of rubbish.

BBC

A load of rubbish.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a load of idiots" sparingly and be mindful of your audience, as it can be perceived as offensive or disrespectful. Consider the context and choose a more appropriate alternative if necessary.

Common error

Avoid using "a load of idiots" in professional or formal settings, as it conveys a lack of respect and can damage your credibility. Instead, opt for more constructive criticism or neutral language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a load of idiots" functions as a noun phrase serving as a subjective complement, expressing a negative evaluation of a group. As Ludwig AI indicates, it conveys disdain or criticism. It's a more colorful way to express disapproval than simply saying "they are wrong."

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a load of idiots" is an informal expression used to convey disdain or criticism towards a group of people deemed foolish or incompetent. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct but should be used cautiously, as it can be perceived as offensive. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it is rarely encountered in formal or professional settings. Alternatives like "a bunch of fools" or "a group of incompetents" may be more suitable depending on the context. When writing, consider the audience and choose alternatives that are less likely to cause offense. The expert rating is 4.5.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a bunch of fools

Focuses on the foolishness rather than the intelligence of the group.

a pack of imbeciles

Emphasizes the low intelligence and lack of understanding.

a collection of nitwits

Highlights the silly or foolish nature of the group.

a group of simpletons

Suggests the group lacks intelligence or common sense.

an assembly of dolts

Implies the group is dull and slow-witted.

a gathering of nincompoops

Stresses the foolish and absurd behavior of the group.

a crowd of blockheads

Highlights the stupidity and lack of intelligence.

a troop of numbskulls

Emphasizes the lack of intelligence and common sense.

a gaggle of halfwits

Suggests the group is somewhat unintelligent or foolish.

a horde of boneheads

Implies the group is stubborn and unintelligent.

FAQs

How can I use "a load of idiots" in a sentence?

You can use "a load of idiots" to express disdain or criticism towards a group of people. For example: "I can't believe they approved that plan; it sounds like something only "a load of idiots" would come up with."

What are some less offensive alternatives to "a load of idiots"?

If you want to express similar criticism without being too harsh, consider alternatives like "a bunch of fools", "a group of inept people", or "a collection of incompetents".

Is it appropriate to use "a load of idiots" in formal writing?

No, "a load of idiots" is generally considered too informal and potentially offensive for formal writing. It is better to use more neutral and professional language in such contexts.

What's the difference between "a load of idiots" and "a bunch of idiots"?

Both phrases express similar sentiments of disdain, but "a load of idiots" might be perceived as slightly stronger or more emphatic than "a bunch of idiots". The choice often depends on personal preference and the specific context.