sheer nonsense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sheer nonsense" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express the idea that something is completely illogical, or that it is very foolish. For example, "It makes no sense to spend so much money on something that is purely decorative; that's sheer nonsense."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Sheer nonsense.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is sheer nonsense, of course.

The New Yorker

The comments were described as "sheer nonsense" by Business Insider.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Russian defense minister promptly dismissed the idea of a Russian military presence in Crimea as "sheer nonsense".

The New Yorker

Another of Allen's gifts is for seeing through various kinds of pretension, false piety and sheer nonsense.

The New York Times - Books

And Mr. Weill called that part of the e-mail message "sheer nonsense," adding, "I would never attempt to manipulate a board member's vote".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

The day's debate has been skillful and high-flown, but as a discussion of principle it has been the sheerest nonsense.

The New Yorker

The sheer distracting nonsense of it.

The New York Times - Magazine

Some are completely whimsical, such as the strange description of evolution from "misty spray" through a series of substances and insects to horses and humans (chapter 18), while a few other passages seem to be sheer playful nonsense which read like Lewis Carroll's "Jabberwocky".

Wikipedia

But the draft report released last week is sheer, mean-spirited nonsense.

The New York Times

Its meaning is elusive but only just, like a conversation overheard while half asleep: it is not incantation, not sheer sound, not nonsense, not scat.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sheer nonsense" to directly and emphatically dismiss an idea or statement you find illogical or untrue. It conveys a strong sense of disbelief or disagreement.

Common error

While effective in many contexts, avoid using "sheer nonsense" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more measured and professional language to maintain a serious tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sheer nonsense" functions as an interjection or emphatic rejection of a statement or idea. It's used to express strong disagreement or disbelief. As Ludwig AI confirms, it conveys that something is illogical or foolish.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

12%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sheer nonsense" is a commonly used phrase for emphatically rejecting a statement or idea as illogical or untrue. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and notes its role in conveying strong disagreement. While grammatically correct and widely understood, it is best used in neutral to informal contexts, such as news media opinions or casual conversation, rather than highly formal or academic writing. Alternatives like "complete rubbish" or "utter balderdash" may be considered for varying degrees of formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete rubbish

Emphasizes the valueless and untrue nature of something.

utter balderdash

A more playful and emphatic way to dismiss something as ridiculous.

pure drivel

Focuses on the senseless and tedious nature of the statement or idea.

absolute poppycock

Highlights the foolish and untrue aspect of the statement.

plain foolishness

Emphasizes the lack of wisdom or good sense.

total absurdity

Highlights the illogical and unreasonable nature of something.

arrant hogwash

Stresses the falseness and worthlessness of the idea.

patent absurdity

Indicates that the nonsensical quality is obvious and undeniable.

unadulterated bunk

Emphasizes the pure and unmixed nature of the falsehood.

downright ridiculous

Highlights the laughable and unreasonable nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "sheer nonsense" in a sentence?

You can use "sheer nonsense" to express strong disagreement or disbelief, such as, "The claim that vaccines cause autism is "sheer nonsense"".

What can I say instead of "sheer nonsense"?

Alternatives include "complete rubbish", "utter balderdash", or "total absurdity", depending on the level of formality and emphasis you want to convey.

Is "sheer nonsense" appropriate for formal writing?

While "sheer nonsense" is widely understood, it may be too informal for academic or professional contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives like "wholly illogical" or "patently false".

What's the difference between "sheer nonsense" and "absolute nonsense"?

Both phrases convey disbelief or disagreement. "Absolute nonsense" simply emphasizes the falsity, while "sheer nonsense" adds a stronger sense of incredulity or frustration.