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

Bodycare's no-nonsense store layouts are known for their bright lighting, and window displays that often feature piles of toilet tissue or pyramids of washing up powder.

From BBC

The crime-fighting combo of a roguish guy and a no-nonsense gal is familiar from “Moonlighting” and “Castle.”

From Los Angeles Times

Since then, she’s become one of the most famous Democrats in Congress, a distinction largely due to her social media savvy and her no-nonsense way of speaking to voters.

From Salon

In recent years the party has embarked on a mission to revamp its straitlaced, no-nonsense image, particularly to attract younger voters who have typically been more sympathetic to the opposition.

From BBC

A précis of Elmer’s early life in Maine is run through by members of the eight-person cast in the bouncy, no-nonsense manner of a graphic novel.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• businesslike 
• stern