What does “Rubbish” mean?
The phrase "Rubbish" means 'everything thrown in the bin or trash' in British English. It encompasses not only garbage, but also includes any discarded items.
How is the expression used in real life?
Learn when and how to use these expressions with these examples!
Example
I need to take out the rubbish before it starts to smell.
I need to take out the rubbish before it starts to smell.
Example
The attic was full of old rubbish we needed to clear out.
The attic was full of old rubbish we needed to clear out.
Example
Recycling helps reduce the amount of rubbish in landfills.
Recycling helps reduce the amount of rubbish in landfills.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Referring to items that need to be thrown away
I need to take out the rubbish before it starts to smell.
I need to take out the rubbish before it starts to smell.
The attic was full of old rubbish we needed to clear out.
The attic was full of old rubbish we needed to clear out.
- 2Discussing waste management or recycling
Recycling helps reduce the amount of rubbish in landfills.
Recycling helps reduce the amount of rubbish in landfills.
We should separate our rubbish into different bins for recycling.
We should separate our rubbish into different bins for recycling.
- 3Describing something as worthless or of low quality
That movie was absolute rubbish, I wouldn't recommend it.
That movie was absolute rubbish, I wouldn't recommend it.
The product I bought turned out to be rubbish, it broke after a week.
The product I bought turned out to be rubbish, it broke after a week.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The term "rubbish" originated in British English and is widely used in the UK. It is commonly used to refer to everything thrown in the bin or trash, including garbage and other discarded items.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The term "rubbish" can be used on its own to refer to trash or discarded items. For example, if someone asks you to throw something away, you can simply respond with "rubbish" to indicate that you will dispose of it.
Is the phrase offensive?
The term "rubbish" is not offensive. It is a common British English slang word used to refer to discarded items or trash.
Audience for the phrase
The term "rubbish" is primarily used in British English and is commonly understood by people in the UK. It is also known and used by English speakers in other countries, particularly those familiar with British slang.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The term "rubbish" is specific to British English and is commonly used in the UK. It may not be as widely understood or used in other English-speaking regions.
