no-nonsense

[ noh-non-sens, -suhns ]

adjective

1. not tolerating anything frivolous or trifling; firm and businesslike:

   a no-nonsense approach to money matters; a no-nonsense teacher with well-behaved classes.

   Synonyms: purposeful, resolute, diligent, earnest

2. economical or utilitarian; practical:

   a no-nonsense car that gets excellent gas mileage.

3. plain and simple; not fancy, complicated, or elegant:

   no-nonsense recipes for easy preparation.

no-nonsense

/ ˌnəʊˈnɒnsəns /

adjective

1. sensible, practical, straightforward; without nonsense of any kind

   a businesslike no-nonsense approach

   a severe no-nonsense look

Word History and Origins

Origin of no-nonsense¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

But Trump got another big lucky break here, not from the district court — Tanya Chutkan is a no-nonsense federal judge who has moved the case briskly — but from the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

Mansfield legend Kevin Bird played over 450 times for the Stags as a no-nonsense defender through the 1970s and early 1980s.

From BBC

The 'Patriot Way' was built around Belichick's no-nonsense approach of just "do your job" and not worry about anything else.

From BBC

Her robust views, "anti-woke" values and no-nonsense style have made her a darling of the Conservative right and the party's grassroots, many of whom see her as a star in the making.

From BBC

His no-nonsense, gun-wielding grandmother from Kentucky serves as a memorable main character.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• businesslike
• stern