PhrasesHub

A load of cobblers

    Definitions

      • To express disbelief or doubt
        Used to indicate that something is false, exaggerated, or nonsensical, often in a playful or humorous manner.

      • To dismiss something as unimportant or insignificant
        Used to imply that something is of little value or relevance, usually in a dismissive or contemptuous manner.

      • To criticize or mock someone or something
        Used to ridicule or make fun of someone or something, typically in a sarcastic or derisive manner.

    Examples of A load of cobblers

    • "Your explanation is a load of cobblers. It makes no sense at all."

      This idiom is used to describe something that is completely false or nonsensical. "Cobblers" is an old-fashioned word for shoemakers, and the phrase "a load of cobblers" is a figurative way of saying that something is full of lies or nonsense, just as a shoemaker's load might include a lot of useless materials. In this example, the speaker is saying that the other person's explanation is so ridiculous that it's like a shoemaker's load of nonsense.A piece of cake

    • "Taking this test will be a piece of cake for you. You've studied so hard."

      This idiom is used to describe something that is very easy to do. "A piece of cake" is a figurative way of saying that something is so simple that it's like eating a piece of cake, which is generally considered to be an enjoyable and easy experience. In this example, the speaker is saying that the test will be very easy for the other person because they have studied so much.Pulling someone's leg

    • "Don't worry, I was just pulling your leg. I didn't really mean it."

      This idiom is used to describe a harmless lie or joke. "Pulling someone's leg" is a figurative way of saying that you're teasing them or telling them something that you know isn't true, just to see their reaction. In this example, the speaker is saying that they were joking and that the other person shouldn't worry about what they said.Let the cat out of the bag

    • "I can't believe you let the cat out of the bag. Now everyone knows our secret."

      This idiom is used to describe revealing a secret that was supposed to be kept hidden. "Letting the cat out of the bag" is a figurative way of saying that you've accidentally revealed something that you were trying to keep hidden, just as letting a cat out of a bag might cause it to run away and reveal its presence. In this example, the speaker is saying that the other person accidentally revealed a secret that they were trying to keep hidden.A drop in the bucket

    • "Your donation is a drop in the bucket compared to what we need to raise."

      This idiom is used to describe something that is very small in comparison to what is needed. "A drop in the bucket" is a figurative way of saying that something is so small that it's like a single drop of water in a very large bucket. In this example, the speaker is saying that the other person's donation is very small in comparison to the amount of money that they need to raise.


    Conclusion

    The phrase "a load of cobblers" is commonly used in British English and has several meanings. One of its main uses is to express disbelief or doubt towards something. In this sense, it can be seen as a more colorful alternative to saying "that's nonsense" or "that's rubbish." It's often used in a lighthearted or humorous way to convey that something is absurd or unlikely to be true.

    Another meaning of "a load of cobblers" is to dismiss something as unimportant or insignificant. This is often used in a derogatory manner, implying that something is not worth paying attention to or taking seriously. It can also be used to belittle someone or their actions, suggesting that they are not significant or meaningful.

    The phrase can also be used to criticize or mock someone or something. This is usually done in a sarcastic or mocking tone, using the term "cobblers" as a euphemism for something negative or undesirable. It can also be used to express frustration or irritation towards someone or something, suggesting that they are incompetent or foolish.

    Origin of "A load of cobblers"

    The origin of the idiom "a load of cobblers" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the British shoemaking industry. The term "cobblers" is a slang term for shoemakers, and it is thought that the phrase may have originated from the idea that cobblers would make up stories or excuses to avoid working.

    Another possible origin is from the phrase "cobblers' awls," which were sharp tools used by cobblers to pierce holes in leather. This could have been used as a metaphor for poking holes in someone's argument or story, suggesting that it is unreliable or false.

    Regardless of its exact origin, the idiom "a load of cobblers" has become a commonly used phrase in British English for expressing disbelief, dismissing something, or criticizing/mockery. Its origins in the shoemaking industry have been largely forgotten, but the phrase continues to be used in everyday language.