utter drivel

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utter drivel" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is nonsensical or meaningless, often in a dismissive manner. Example: "The article was filled with utter drivel, lacking any substantial argument or evidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

What utter drivel.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

One added: "The lyrics to this song are utter drivel!

Independent

Because that's what it is: complete and utter drivel.

The Guardian

It's great to hear Nasser calling him out on the utter drivel he's spouting mind.

The Guardian - Sport

Sounds like complete and utter drivel to me, but I wish him well at the next Classical Brits.

Independent

But the elephant sitting so conspicuously here with us today in this honey-coloured suite at the Dorchester is the fact that Derailed is utter drivel.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"It's pure drivel".

The New Yorker

Not a few are pure drivel.

The New York Times

Utter garbage!

The New Yorker

Utter garbage," Bhaskar tweeted.

Independent

It is appalling that parliament can utter such state-serving drivel rather than a law desired, discussed and in the interests of thousands of desperate citizens.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utter drivel" to express strong disagreement or disapproval, particularly when you believe something is not only wrong but also completely lacking in merit or intelligence. Reserve it for situations where you want to make a forceful point.

Common error

While "utter drivel" is effective for expressing strong opinions, avoid using it in formal or professional writing. Opt for more neutral language to maintain credibility and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utter drivel" functions as a noun phrase where "utter" intensifies the negative connotation of "drivel". According to Ludwig AI, this is used to express strong disapproval, labeling something as nonsensical. Examples from Ludwig show it frequently used in opinion pieces or critiques.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utter drivel" is a phrase used to express strong disapproval of something considered nonsensical or worthless. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and appears mainly in news and media contexts, reflecting its informal register. While effective for conveying strong opinions, it's best reserved for informal settings. Alternatives like "complete nonsense" or "absolute rubbish" can be used depending on the context and desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete nonsense

Emphasizes the lack of logic or sense.

absolute rubbish

Highlights the poor quality and worthlessness.

total garbage

Strongly conveys worthlessness and undesirability.

pure balderdash

Implies foolishness and lack of substance.

arrant nonsense

Highlights the blatant and obvious lack of sense.

complete hogwash

Suggests deception and lack of truth.

sheer bunkum

Emphasizes the deceptive and insincere nature of the statement.

unadulterated codswallop

Highlights the pure and unmixed nature of the nonsense.

utter baloney

Emphasizes the falseness and absurdity.

absolute poppycock

Implies silliness and lack of importance.

FAQs

How can I use "utter drivel" in a sentence?

You can use "utter drivel" to express your strong opinion that something is nonsensical or of very poor quality. For example: "His explanation was "utter drivel"."

What are some alternatives to "utter drivel"?

Alternatives include "complete nonsense", "absolute rubbish", or "total garbage", depending on the level of formality and intensity you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "utter drivel"?

Use "utter drivel" when you want to strongly express your opinion that something is nonsensical, poorly conceived, or completely without merit. It's best suited for informal or opinionated contexts.

Is "utter drivel" considered formal or informal language?

"Utter drivel" is generally considered informal language. While it's perfectly acceptable in casual conversations and opinion pieces, it is inappropriate for academic papers or professional reports. More formal alternatives include "unsubstantiated claims" or "baseless arguments".