What Does BULLSHIT Mean? How (not) to use it?

What’s the meaning of BULLSHIT? Is it a taboo word, rude? Can it be used in any context?

BULLSHIT is a very common word in movies, TV series and even songs. You can hear being used by almost everyone. But you’re a speaker of English as a second language, so can you use it as well or you might be careful?

Keep reading to learn (almost) everything about this word.

Meaning of “Bullshit”

The word “bullshit” /ˈbʊlˌʃɪt/ is commonly used to describe:

• Lies
• Nonsense
• Fake stories
• Exaggeration
• Meaningless talk

In simple terms, it refers to something that is not true or not worth believing.

However, it is still considered informal and sometimes offensive, so it should be used carefully.

Is “Bullshit” Still a Taboo Word?

Interestingly, some modern dictionaries no longer consider bullshit as strongly taboo as before.

For example, the Collins Cobuild Dictionary explains:

This word was formerly considered to be taboo… However, it has now become acceptable in speech, although some older or more conservative people may object to its use.

In other words, the word has become more common and socially accepted, especially in casual speech. Still, older or more conservative people may dislike it.

So, the best advice is simple: use it carefully—or avoid it when possible.

How to Use “Bullshit” in Real Life

Let’s imagine a common situation.

A friend starts telling you a very strange story. You realize that he is probably exaggerating or making things up. When he finishes, you might say:

“Oh, come on! That’s bullshit, man!”

This means:

“Come on! That’s a lie!”
“That’s nonsense!”
“That’s fake!”

Here are more natural examples:

• Don’t give me that bullshit, man.
• Forget all that bullshit and listen to me!
• What he told me was a load of bullshit.
• I’m tired of all this politically correct bullshit.
• Bullshit! I never said that!
• His excuse was a load of bullshit.

In all these cases, bullshit expresses disbelief, irritation, or rejection of false information.

“Bullshit” Meaning “Nonsense” or “Stupidity”

The word can also mean “something stupid or irrational.”

For example, if someone talks about a strange superstition and you don’t believe it, you might say:

“That’s bullshit.”

Meaning:

“That’s nonsense.”
“That’s ridiculous.”

Softer Alternatives: “Bull,” “Nonsense,” and Polite Options

If you want to sound less rude, you can say “bull” instead of “bullshit.”

Example:

• That’s bull!

You can replace bullshit with bull in most sentences.

Another safe alternative is “nonsense,” which is polite and suitable for formal contexts.

Example:

• That’s nonsense.

This is often the best choice for students, teachers, and professionals.

“Bullshit” as a Verb

“Bullshit” can also be used as a verb, meaning to lie, exaggerate, or deceive.

Examples:

• Don’t bullshit me. Tell me the truth.
• Stop bullshitting and be honest.

In this form, it means:

• To make excuses
• To invent stories
• To avoid telling the truth

The Origin of the Word “Bullshit”

According to etymologists (people who study word origins), “bull” in “bullshit” has nothing to do with the animal “bull.”

Instead, it probably comes from the Old French word “bole,” which meant:

• Trick
• Deception
• Fraud
• Scheme

Over time, this word evolved and became associated with false or misleading talk.

So, the original idea behind bullshit has always been related to deception and dishonesty.

Final Thoughts: Should You Use “Bullshit”?

“Bullshit” is a powerful and expressive word in English. It is very common in movies, TV shows, and casual conversations.

However, it is still informal and potentially offensive.

As an English learner or teacher, you should:

• Understand it well ✔️
• Recognize it in real speech ✔️
• Use it carefully ⚠️
• Prefer polite alternatives when needed ✔️

Mastering words like this helps you sound more natural and confident—but also more culturally aware.

» This blog post was first published in Portuguese on January 06, 2013.