no-nonsense

adjective

ˈnō-ˌnän-ˌsen(t)s How to pronounce no-nonsense (audio)
Definition of no-nonsensenext
as in solemn
not joking or playful in mood or manner a no-nonsense gymnastics coach

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of no-nonsense Swedish superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who’s winning plaudits for his no-nonsense commentary on Fox Sports during this World Cup, played for clubs like Barcelona, AC Milan, Manchester United, and Paris Saint-Germain. — Sean Gregory, Time, 20 June 2026 The diminutive restaurant is about as no-nonsense inside as out. — Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 19 June 2026 Series 7 remains one of the best lineups of players in Taskmaster history, and Kerry Godliman beat all of them with a relentless, surprisingly endearing no-nonsense attitude. — Matthew Jackson, Vulture, 12 June 2026 The Burnley striker is a no-nonsense type player, but his experience across Europe’s top leagues could prove vital. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for no-nonsense
Recent Examples of Synonyms for no-nonsense
  1. solemn
  2. serious
  3. stern
  4. professional
  5. earnest
Adjective
  • Preservationists also say that the arch’s scale would overwhelm the solemn character of Arlington National Cemetery.
    — Janay Kingsberry, The Atlantic, 19 July 2026
  • Nolan’s more solemn final act attempts too much and doesn’t develop some key moments.
    — Randy Myers, Mercury News, 14 July 2026
Definition of solemn
Adjective
  • The claim and counterclaim are among serious allegations – including of smear campaigns and embezzlement – aired in multiple court cases now swirling around the production of the Australian musical comedy.
    — Hilary Whiteman, CNN Money, 22 July 2026
  • Deputies followed behind and reported no serious injuries related to the rolling sedan.
    — Dennis Romero, NBC news, 22 July 2026
Definition of serious
Adjective
  • In Elliott’s Connecticut, the governor would send a busload of stern but compassionate counselors to protect workers hiding in their office where a gunman lurks.
    — Kevin Rennie, Hartford Courant, 18 July 2026
  • Burnham brings a more relaxed style of leadership than the rather stern Starmer, and is regarded as one of the Labour Party’s best communicators.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 17 July 2026
Definition of stern
Adjective
  • Sixty percent use it in their professional lives, while nearly the same number are wary of its impact on the future of the state and society.
    — Tyler Pare, Washington Post, 16 July 2026
  • In addition to bit parts in a couple of feature films, O’Connor made his professional stage debut in a 2013 production of Farragut North and a 2014 production of Versailles.
    — Nick Tabor, Encyclopedia Britannica, 15 July 2026
Definition of professional
Adjective
  • Her voice was earnest and corporate, a mom enthusiastic about YouTube creators and new product features.
    — Claire Stapleton, New Yorker, 18 July 2026
  • The Film Celebrates and Defends the LGBTQ+ Experience Heartstopper has never been shy in advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ people, even with a more earnest tone.
    — Abbey White, HollywoodReporter, 18 July 2026
Definition of earnest

Browse Nearby Words

nonofficial
no-nonsense
nonoperating
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“No-nonsense.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/no-nonsense. Accessed 23 Jul. 2026.

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