no-nonsense

adjective

no-non·​sense ˈnō-ˌnän-ˌsen(t)s How to pronounce no-nonsense (audio)
-ˈnän(t)-sən(t)s
Synonyms of no-nonsensenext
: tolerating no nonsense : serious, businesslike
a no-nonsense manager

Synonyms of no-nonsense

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Examples of no-nonsense in a Sentence

a no-nonsense gymnastics coach
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The diminutive restaurant is about as no-nonsense inside as out. — Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 19 June 2026 The Burnley striker is a no-nonsense type player, but his experience across Europe’s top leagues could prove vital. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 11 June 2026 Her storyline is filled with no-nonsense attorney quips, expired passport drama and an incompetent fiancé. — Clare Mulroy, USA Today, 10 June 2026 The only answer, then, is a no-nonsense public transit sanitation service that keeps our buses, bus stops and train stations clean and appealing in both city and suburbs. — Chicago Tribune, 9 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for no-nonsense

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of no-nonsense was in 1853

Rhymes for no-nonsense

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Browse Nearby Words

non omnis moriar
no-nonsense
nonop
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“No-nonsense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/no-nonsense. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

no-nonsense

adjective
: putting up with or including no nonsense : serious
a no-nonsense manager
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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