English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

Have no truck with

Meaning

The idiom "have no truck with" means not to have anything to do with something or someone, usually because it is considered undesirable or harmful. The phrase can also imply that the speaker will not waste their time or energy on something or someone that they find unimportant or unpleasant. This idiom often has a negative connotation and suggests a strong rejection or disapproval.

Usage

  • "I have no truck with people who talk down to me." - This sentence suggests that the speaker will not associate with anyone who treats them with disrespect or condescension.
  • "Don't have any trouble with my new neighbor, I don't like her at all." - This sentence implies that the speaker is aware of their neighbor and does not approve of her behavior, so they want to avoid any issues with her.
  • "I have no truck with anyone who cheats on their partner." - This sentence suggests that the speaker will not associate with anyone who has been unfaithful in a relationship.
  • "Don't bother me, I have no time for your nonsense." - This sentence implies that the speaker is busy and does not want to waste their time listening to someone who they consider to be annoying or unimportant.
  • "I don't like politics, I have no truck with it." - This sentence suggests that the speaker is not interested in politics and doesn't approve of its influence on their life.

Roots and History

The idiom "have no truck with" has been used in English since at least the 16th century. It originally comes from the phrase "to have no truck with," which means not to participate in something, usually because it is considered undesirable or harmful. The phrase became an idiom in the 19th century and has since taken on a stronger negative connotation. The idiom has also been used in other languages, such as "pas aimer" in French (not to like), "nicht mitgehen" in German (not to go with), and "niets te doen met hem" in Dutch (to have nothing to do with him).

Synonyms in English

  • Have nothing to do with it
  • Keep away from it
  • Stay away from it
  • Don't get involved in it
  • Avoid it

Synonyms in other languages

  • Pas aimer - French
  • Nicht mitgehen - German
  • Niets te doen met hem - Dutch
  • Evitarelo - Italian
  • No interesado - Spanish

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