utterly nonsensical

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utterly nonsensical" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is completely illogical or absurd. Example: "The argument he presented was utterly nonsensical and failed to convince anyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

The game also has typical adventure-game flaws, including crucial but easily overlooked items and a few utterly nonsensical puzzles.

The New York Times - Tech

Part of the reason for this is Gingrich is thoroughly unlikable among the electorate at large and utterly nonsensical in his approach to real problem-solving.

The New York Times

Ms Hames said in her statement: "This was utterly nonsensical as we had by then been married for four years, had been together for 11 years and had two children.

Independent

Little danger of losing the plot thread here: the film is utterly nonsensical, the first part of a trilogy that was never completed, so the various story lines have no end points.

The New York Times - Food

The final twist, effective enough (though not very imaginative) as a piece of suspense plotting, has the unfortunate effect of making everything that has come before utterly nonsensical (Scott).

The New York Times

"We know that an overwhelming majority of students will never pay back their student debt; by its own logic the system of 9k fees has failed and it is utterly nonsensical that Osborne is planning to load students with more debt rather than admit this".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

So yes, we should probably have some sympathy for the screenwriter when he's simply trying to explain the nonsensical decision-making process followed by studio bigwigs when making these utterly ridiculous decisions.

The Guardian - Film

Utterly ridiculous.

Independent

Utterly absurd.

The New York Times

Utterly ludicrous!!!

The Guardian - Sport

Utterly preposterous!

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utterly nonsensical" to strongly convey the idea that something is completely devoid of logic or reason. This phrase is particularly effective when you want to emphasize the extreme nature of the absurdity.

Common error

While "utterly nonsensical" is generally acceptable, be mindful of your audience and the overall tone. In highly formal or academic writing, consider using a more restrained alternative like "illogical" or "irrational" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utterly nonsensical" functions as a descriptor, modifying a noun or idea to indicate a complete lack of reason or logic. It serves to strongly negate the validity or sensibility of whatever it describes. Ludwig AI highlights the phrase's use in various contexts, confirming its grammatical function.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "utterly nonsensical" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, employed to describe something completely lacking in logic or reason. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples drawn from reputable sources, predominantly within the realm of news and media. While generally considered neutral in register, it is important to consider the context and audience, as more formal settings may necessitate the use of alternatives such as "completely absurd" or "totally illogical". When seeking to emphasize the extreme nature of something's absurdity, "utterly nonsensical" serves as a potent and effective descriptor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely absurd

This alternative emphasizes the ridiculous nature of something, suggesting it's unreasonable or inappropriate.

totally illogical

Focuses on the lack of logical consistency.

patently ridiculous

Highlights the obviousness of the absurdity.

blatantly absurd

Emphasizes that something is openly and shamelessly ridiculous.

manifestly foolish

Indicates that something is clearly and undeniably unwise.

thoroughly irrational

Stresses that something is completely devoid of reason.

entirely without reason

This alternative emphasizes the complete absence of logical thinking.

pure foolishness

Highlights the silliness and lack of wisdom.

utter balderdash

This alternative uses a more informal and expressive term for nonsense.

arrant nonsense

This phrase uses a slightly archaic term to emphasize the pure and unadulterated nature of the nonsense.

FAQs

How can I use "utterly nonsensical" in a sentence?

You can use "utterly nonsensical" to describe arguments, ideas, or situations that make absolutely no sense. For example, "His explanation for the missing money was "completely absurd" and utterly nonsensical."

What are some alternatives to "utterly nonsensical"?

Alternatives include "completely absurd", "totally illogical", or "patently ridiculous". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "utterly nonsensical" formal or informal?

"Utterly nonsensical" is generally considered neutral in tone. It is appropriate for many contexts, but more formal situations may call for alternatives such as "irrational" or "unfounded".

What's the difference between "nonsensical" and "utterly nonsensical"?

Adding "utterly" intensifies the meaning of "nonsensical", emphasizing that something is not just lacking in sense, but completely and undeniably so. It's a stronger, more emphatic way to express the idea.