What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nonsense
Example
Don't listen to him, he's talking nonsense. [nonsense: noun]
Example
The politician's speech was full of nonsense and empty promises. [nonsense: adjective]
rubbish
Example
This book is rubbish, don't waste your time reading it. [rubbish: adjective]
Example
Take out the rubbish before it starts to smell. [rubbish: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rubbish is more commonly used than nonsense in everyday language. Rubbish is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while nonsense is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nonsense and rubbish?
Nonsense is more formal than rubbish, which is more commonly used in informal contexts.
