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 character type Winstone has made his signature across four decades of screen acting can be described as gruff, straight-shooting, no-nonsense, and often violent. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 31 Aug. 2026 Katherine LaNasa, the Emmy-winning actress who plays the no-nonsense nurse Dana Evans, is willing to give up one big storyline. — Ralphie Aversa, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026 Known to many as YGR, Gonzalez Rogers has developed a reputation for her no-nonsense attitude. — Jeffrey Kopp, CNBC, 22 Aug. 2026 Kelly Macdonald as Sheriff Kerry Rushville, Nebraska’s no-nonsense Sheriff Kerry is played by Kelly Macdonald. — Skyler Trepel, PEOPLE, 16 Aug. 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
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Cite this Entry

“No-nonsense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/no-nonsense. Accessed 4 Sep. 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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