utter bullshit

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "utter bullshit" is a slang phrase that is generally considered to be quite rude and should be avoided in formal writing.
It could be used in informal contexts, for example in a casual conversation between friends, such as "That's utter bullshit!".

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Utter bullshit.

The Guardian

"Their arguments are utter bullshit.

The Guardian - Business

@trib: "This brouhaha over Gordon Brown is utter bullshit.

The Guardian

It's total and utter bullshit," Jong told me then.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Most cannabis cups are just complete, utter bullshit," Montrose said.

The New Yorker

I think it's total, utter bullshit, and I don't want to be a part of it.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Please donate even just $1 if you think this is utter and complete bullshit and also hilarious and very, very depressing at the same time.

TechCrunch

Don't get me wrong, I think much of what the MRAs have to say is utter derailing bullshit.

Vice

The urban dictionary defines fuckery as "absolute bullshit; utter nonsense; something rather suspicious that can bring forth uneasy, angry and irritated feelings".

Huffington Post

The crowd, somewhat in confusion and somewhat in utter disbelief, began chanting "bullshit".

Vice

"Bullshit," he uttered under his breath more than once during the call.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, be mindful that the phrase lacks nuance and can be overly blunt. Employ it when a softer expression simply won't do.

Common error

Avoid using "utter bullshit" in formal writing or professional communication. Its crassness can undermine your credibility and damage professional relationships.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utter bullshit" functions as an interjection or a predicate adjective, strongly expressing disbelief, disagreement, or dismissal. It's used to vehemently reject a statement, idea, or situation, as Ludwig shows.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Social Media

20%

Reference

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utter bullshit" is a vulgar phrase used to express strong disbelief or disagreement. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as an interjection or adjective, serving to reject or ridicule something. It's most commonly found in news and media sources, but is best reserved for informal settings with close acquaintances, as it would be unacceptable in professional contexts. While grammatically correct, its usage can be damaging to credibility in some situations. When needed, you can use a less aggressive option such as “"complete rubbish"”.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete rubbish

Replaces "bullshit" with a milder term, suitable for less offensive contexts.

total nonsense

Offers a more neutral alternative, focusing on the lack of logic or sense.

absolute hogwash

Maintains the negative connotation but uses a more colorful and less offensive expression.

utter fabrication

Emphasizes the untruthfulness of a statement or claim.

pure fabrication

Shifts the focus to the idea that something is made up or invented.

blatant lie

Highlights the deceptive nature of the statement, indicating it's a clear and obvious untruth.

arrant nonsense

Uses a more formal and somewhat archaic term for nonsense, suitable for different registers.

downright falsehood

Emphasizes the incorrectness and untruthfulness of the statement.

unmitigated drivel

Emphasizes the poor quality and lack of value in what is being said.

sheer poppycock

Uses a less common and slightly humorous term for nonsense.

FAQs

What does "utter bullshit" mean?

The phrase "utter bullshit" is a vulgar expression used to emphatically reject something as false, nonsensical, or completely untrue. It implies a strong disagreement and a belief that something is not only wrong but also ridiculous or offensive.

When is it appropriate to use "utter bullshit"?

It's appropriate to use "utter bullshit" only in very informal settings with people you know well and who won't be offended by strong language. Avoid using it in professional, academic, or public contexts.

What can I say instead of "utter bullshit"?

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

Is there a difference between "utter bullshit" and "total bullshit"?

The phrases "utter bullshit" and "total bullshit" are very similar in meaning and can often be used interchangeably. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference, though "utter" might be perceived as slightly more emphatic.