pure bunkum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pure bunkum" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is nonsense or foolishness, often in a dismissive manner. Example: "The politician's promises turned out to be pure bunkum, with no real plans to back them up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Vigalondo's cast members derive equal parts comedy and pathos from their situation, trading revealing looks on the sly while running their mouths with pure bunkum to keep each other off balance.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Naturally the Aryans triumphed in both cases; equally naturally, the science on which such studies were based, just like that of phrenology, was eventually shown to be the purest bunkum, a total joke — though since it was used as a basis for state policy, it was not amusing at all.

The New York Times - Science

"Complete bunkum," he says.

The Guardian - Travel

UK Independence Party leader Nigel Farage dismissed Conservatives' claims to be able to lead a process of reform in Europe as "utter bunkum".

Independent

"The idea that they don't work with treasury officals is complete bunkum," said Sir Andrew.

The Guardian - Business

"The claims about the CFA have been demonstrated to be complete bunkum," said Victorian senator Kim Carr.

The Guardian

UK Independence Party leader Nigel Farage called the idea that the UK could lead reform within Europe "utter bunkum".

BBC

And all that talk of 'everyone gets a seat at the table' was sheer and unadulterated bunkum.

Huffington Post

What bunkum.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's hokey bunkum.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It's bunkum.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pure bunkum" to express strong disagreement or disbelief in a lighthearted or humorous way, particularly when dismissing claims or ideas you find completely unfounded.

Common error

Avoid using "pure bunkum" in formal writing or professional settings where a more serious and respectful tone is required. Opt for alternatives like "unsubstantiated claims" or "misinformation" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pure bunkum" functions as a noun phrase, typically used predicatively or as an appositive to express strong disagreement or disbelief. It's often employed to dismiss statements, ideas, or arguments considered completely unfounded or nonsensical. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pure bunkum" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express disbelief or dismiss something as nonsensical. Ludwig AI analysis suggests that while it is acceptable in written English, its informal tone makes it more appropriate for casual contexts and less suitable for formal writing. The phrase is commonly found in news and media sources. Alternatives such as "utter nonsense" or "complete rubbish" can be used depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utter nonsense

Replaces "pure bunkum" with a more direct term for something that is completely without sense or reason.

complete rubbish

Substitutes "pure bunkum" with a common expression for something that is of very poor quality or worthless.

total balderdash

Offers a more emphatic and old-fashioned alternative to "pure bunkum" for something that is foolish or untrue.

absolute codswallop

Replaces "pure bunkum" with a British slang term to indicate something utterly nonsensical.

arrant hogwash

Provides a slightly less common, yet equally dismissive, alternative to "pure bunkum".

plain foolishness

Replaces "pure bunkum" emphasizing the silliness or lack of wisdom in something.

sheer fabrication

Substitutes "pure bunkum" focusing on the idea that something is invented or untrue.

blatant falsehood

Offers a more direct substitute for "pure bunkum" when emphasizing that something is clearly untrue.

unadulterated drivel

Replaces "pure bunkum" with a term that emphasizes the boring or meaningless nature of something.

outright absurdity

Substitutes "pure bunkum" focusing on the ridiculous and unreasonable nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "pure bunkum" in a sentence?

You can use "pure bunkum" to dismiss something you find nonsensical, as in, "The politician's promises were "pure bunkum"."

What's the difference between "pure bunkum" and "complete nonsense"?

"Pure bunkum" and "complete nonsense" are similar, but "pure bunkum" might carry a slightly more humorous or dismissive tone, while "complete nonsense" is a more direct expression of something being illogical or untrue.

What can I say instead of "pure bunkum"?

You can use alternatives like "utter nonsense", "complete rubbish", or "total balderdash" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "pure bunkum" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "pure bunkum" is generally considered informal. In formal writing, it's better to use more professional terms like "unsubstantiated claims" or "misinformation".