a load of shit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a load of shit" is correct and usable in written English, though it is informal and vulgar.
It can be used to express disbelief or disdain towards something that is perceived as nonsense or untrue. Example: "His explanation for missing the deadline was just a load of shit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

What a load of shit".

The Guardian - Sport

He does talk a load of shit.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It sounds like a load of shit.

The Guardian - Music

"Well that's a load of shit for a start," she replied briskly.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Because the whole country runs on coffee, caffeine and people talking a load of shit".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The cigarettes we had in the camp were a load of shit".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

What a load of old shit".

The Guardian

And it's a load of dumb shit.

The Guardian

It's just a load of filthy shit in general.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Because it is a game… it's all a load of old shit [laughs].

Independent

While that will sound like a load of horse shit to some.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the impact of using vulgar language. While it can be effective for emphasis, it may also alienate some readers or listeners.

Common error

Avoid using "a load of shit" in formal writing or professional communications. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "nonsense" or "rubbish" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a load of shit" functions as an interjection or exclamation, expressing strong disbelief, contempt, or dismissal. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English, though it is informal and vulgar.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a load of shit" is a vulgar idiom used to express strong disbelief or contempt. Ludwig confirms the phrase is usable, but highly informal, making it inappropriate for formal or professional contexts. It is commonly found in News & Media sources and is best reserved for casual conversations where such language is acceptable. When in doubt, opt for less offensive alternatives like "nonsense" or "rubbish".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plain bullshit

A more direct synonym, retaining the vulgarity but slightly altering the wording.

complete rubbish

Uses a British English term for something worthless or untrue.

a bunch of nonsense

Replaces the vulgar term with a more polite expression.

pure hogwash

Replaces the offensive term with a folksy expression for nonsense.

absolute poppycock

Uses a lighthearted and dismissive term for nonsense.

utter balderdash

Employs a more archaic and humorous term for nonsense.

patent absurdity

Focuses on the ridiculous and illogical nature of something.

total fabrication

Suggests that something is entirely made up or false.

blatant falsehood

Highlights the obvious untruthfulness of something.

downright lie

Emphasizes the intentional deceit of a statement.

FAQs

What does "a load of shit" mean?

The phrase "a load of shit" is a vulgar idiom used to express strong disbelief, disagreement, or contempt towards something considered false, nonsensical, or worthless.

Is it okay to use "a load of shit" in formal writing?

No, the expression "a load of shit" is considered highly informal and vulgar. It is best to avoid using it in formal writing or professional communication. Instead, opt for more appropriate alternatives such as "nonsense", "rubbish", or "falsehood".

What are some less offensive ways to say "a load of shit"?

You can use alternatives like "a bunch of nonsense", "complete rubbish", "utter balderdash", or "pure hogwash" to express disbelief or disagreement without being offensive.

When is it appropriate to use "a load of shit"?

The phrase "a load of shit" is generally only appropriate in very informal settings, such as casual conversations with close friends, where vulgar language is acceptable. Even then, consider whether its use is necessary or if a less offensive alternative would be more suitable.