English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

Cut the crap

Meaning

"Cut the crap" is an idiom that means to stop talking nonsense or bullshitting. It can also mean to stop doing something that is considered annoying, boring, or unnecessary.

Usage

  • "I'm sick of hearing your excuses. Cut the crap and take responsibility for your actions."
  • "Can we please get back to discussing the project? I don't need to hear about your personal problems right now."
  • "I've had enough of listening to your stories about your weekend. Cut the crap and let's move on."
  • "You're not helping by constantly interrupting. Cut the crap and let others finish their sentences."
  • "The meeting has been going on for hours and we haven't even gotten started. Cut the crap and get to the point."

Roots and History

The idiom "cut the crap" is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It may have come from the phrase "cutting corners," which means taking shortcuts or doing something in a quick and easy way. The phrase "cut the crap" likely emerged as a way to express frustration with someone who was trying to take the easy way out by avoiding difficult or uncomfortable topics. Over time, the meaning of "cut the crap" has evolved to include any kind of bullshitting or nonsense. It is now commonly used in a wide range of contexts to tell someone to stop talking rubbish or to get to the point quickly.

Synonyms in English

  • Bullshit
  • Hogwash
  • Nonsense
  • Rubbish
  • Bunkum

Synonyms in other languages

  • French - "Bouderie" (stubbornness)
  • German - "Klischee" (cliché)
  • Spanish - "Charlatanismo" (huckstering or quackery)
  • Italian - "Pettegolezza" (gossiping or idle talk)
  • Japanese - "Hokori" (shame or humiliation)

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