load of bull

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "load of bull" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express disbelief or to indicate that something is nonsense or untrue. Example: "When he claimed he could run a marathon without training, I thought it was just a load of bull."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

It's a load of bull.

Independent

"That's a load of bull," he says.

The Guardian

Does this mean that all talk of adjusting, acclimatisation is just a load of bull?" You say "a load of bull" like it's a bad thing, Anand.

The Guardian - Sport

He claims he was being held on to, but that's a load of bull.

The Guardian - Sport

In a follow-up article, the intro said: "This Wolf of Wall Street is a load of bull".

The Guardian

Every major call he has got wrong," says Charles Ross, editor of the former Wolves fanzine, A Load of Bull.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Well, that's the biggest load of bull---t.

Huffington Post

I think Myra is actually a beautiful name and the fact it's been decommissioned because of that murderous woman from 60 years ago is a load of bull-honky.

Vice

People pulled out the classic "feminazi" calls, and inundated her with what is basically a heaping load of sexist bull crap, because she gave a (marginally) higher score to Rise of the Tomb Raider, a video game featuring a female lead.

Vice

Welsh rugby curse, or a load of papal bull?

The Times

More like a load of old bull at any time of the year.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience. While widely understood, the phrase may be offensive to some.

Common error

Don't overuse "load of bull" in your writing, as it can make your language sound repetitive and less impactful. Instead, vary your expressions of disbelief with alternatives like "bunch of nonsense" or "utter balderdash".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "load of bull" functions primarily as an idiomatic expression, serving as a colloquial way to express disbelief, disagreement, or to dismiss something as nonsense. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Lifestyle

17%

Opinion

17%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "load of bull" is an informal idiomatic expression used to express disbelief or to dismiss something as untrue or nonsensical. Ludwig AI confirms its usage and the examples highlight its presence in news and opinion contexts. While grammatically correct, its informal nature means it's best reserved for casual conversation or when directly quoting someone. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "bunch of nonsense" or "utter balderdash" to maintain clarity and appropriateness in varied settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bunch of nonsense

Replaces the more vulgar "bull" with a milder term, "nonsense".

pile of rubbish

Uses "rubbish" to suggest something is worthless and untrue.

pack of lies

Focuses on the deceptive aspect, suggesting deliberate falsehood.

utter balderdash

Employs a more old-fashioned and humorous term for nonsense.

complete hogwash

Uses "hogwash" as a folksy term for something ridiculous.

total fabrication

Highlights that something has been made up.

pure poppycock

Utilizes a playful and dismissive term.

blatant falsehood

Emphasizes the obvious and undeniable nature of the lie.

sheer absurdity

Focuses on the ridiculous and illogical nature of something.

cock and bull story

Implies an elaborate and unbelievable tale.

FAQs

What does "load of bull" mean?

The phrase "load of bull" is an informal expression used to indicate that something is nonsense, untrue, or greatly exaggerated.

Is "load of bull" considered offensive?

While not the most vulgar expression, "load of bull" can be considered impolite in formal settings or when addressing certain audiences. Consider alternatives like "bunch of nonsense" or "pile of rubbish" for more neutral situations.

What are some alternatives to "load of bull"?

You can use alternatives like "pack of lies", "total fabrication", or "complete hogwash" depending on the specific context and the degree of formality required.

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

You can use "load of bull" in sentences like: "His excuse for being late was a complete "load of bull"" or "I think that whole story is just a "load of bull"".