load of codswallop

USAGE SUMMARY

"load of codswallop" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is a British slang term that means nonsense or foolish talk. It can be used in a range of situations, from casual conversation to more formal writing. Example: The politician's promises were just a load of codswallop, none of them were ever fulfilled.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Except that it's a complete load of codswallop.

The Guardian - Money

June 24 , 2014Kevan Jones MP (@KevanJonesMP) In 2010 Boris Johnson said that phone hacking allegations were "a load of codswallop cooked up by the Labour Party".

The Guardian

The mayor of London, Boris Johnson, who last year described the hacking issue as a load of codswallop, was also furious that he had not been informed of the payments to Wallis until after his arrest last week.

The Guardian

A transcript of Mayor's Question Time for Sept. 15, 2010, shows that Mr. Johnson called the allegation that phone hacking was much more widespread than the initial police investigation had suggested, "a load of codswallop cooked up by the Labour Party".

The New York Times

Claims in the press that her younger sister's marriage to a notorious Manchester gangster introduced Mark to crime are "a load of codswallop", she says angrily; her sister fled the marriage when her husband became a gangster, and "Mark never knew the Noonans.

The Guardian

The London mayor, Boris Johnson, who last year described the hacking issue as a load of "codswallop", revealed that the professional standards committee of the MPA will meet on Monday morning and "there may well be consequences that flow from that".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

It's an impeccably executed load of old codswallop.

Independent

Cookery, load of rubbish".

The Guardian

"What a load of rubbish.

BBC

A load of rubbish.

BBC

Question: "Is the Soil Protection Review the biggest load of red tape codswallop that Defra have ever written?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "load of codswallop" to express strong disagreement or disbelief in a situation where you want to emphasize that something is untrue or nonsensical, particularly in informal or British contexts.

Common error

While "load of codswallop" is effective in informal settings, avoid using it in formal writing or professional communication, as it may be perceived as unprofessional or overly dismissive. Opt for more neutral or factual language instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "load of codswallop" functions as an idiomatic expression used to express disbelief or rejection of something as nonsense. Ludwig examples show its use in dismissing claims, allegations, and explanations as false or without merit.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "load of codswallop" is a British slang term meaning nonsense or foolish talk. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. The phrase is grammatically sound but carries an informal register, primarily appearing in News & Media contexts. While effective for expressing strong disagreement, it's best reserved for informal settings. Related phrases include "a load of rubbish" and "a bunch of nonsense", offering alternative ways to express similar sentiments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a load of rubbish

Similar in tone and meaning, expressing strong disagreement or disbelief.

a bunch of nonsense

Emphasizes the lack of sense or logic in what is being said.

utter drivel

Indicates that the statement is foolish and nonsensical.

a pack of lies

Focuses on the deceitful aspect, implying deliberate falsehood.

complete hogwash

Highlights the absurdity and worthlessness of the statement.

arrant twaddle

Emphasizes the trivial and foolish nature of the statement.

a crock of baloney

Uses a different idiom to convey the same sense of falseness or exaggeration.

total poppycock

Another term for nonsense, adding a slightly humorous tone.

pure bunkum

Uses an archaic term for nonsense to dismiss the statement.

falsehoods

Directly points out that the statement is a lie, rather than just nonsense.

FAQs

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

You can use "load of codswallop" to dismiss something you believe is untrue or nonsensical. For example: "His explanation for the missing money was just a "load of codswallop"."

What's a more formal alternative to "load of codswallop"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a "misrepresentation"", "unsubstantiated claims", or "patently false" to maintain a professional tone.

Is "load of codswallop" considered offensive?

While not overtly offensive, "load of codswallop" can be perceived as dismissive or rude, especially in formal situations. Consider your audience and the context before using it.

What is the origin of the term "codswallop"?

The exact origin of "codswallop" is debated, but it's commonly believed to be British slang that emerged in the 20th century, possibly related to the name of a soft drink manufacturer or the slang term for beer.