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

The usually no-nonsense Mrs. Clarke made an uncharacteristic fuss over Lady Constance.

Read more on Literature

The very idea of such prompt, no-nonsense execution of one’s responsibilities was so admirably Swanburne-like that Penelope’s spirits were quite lifted.

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The character, played by Pam St Clement, was beloved by viewers for more than 25 years for her no-nonsense personality and memorable taste in earrings.

Read more on BBC

Natural Cycles is my favorite because it’s no-nonsense: straightforward insights, with data-rich graphs if you want to go deeper.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Tandy was a no-nonsense flanker during his playing days and the former Scotland and British and Irish Lions defence coach has made a positive impression in his first few weeks in charge.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• businesslike 
• stern