Translation guide
Expressions to dismiss something as absurd, ridiculous, or untrue in Japanese.
To react to something someone said by calling it nonsense, often in a strong or emotional way.
Literally 'What are you saying?', used to express disbelief or that what was said is nonsense. Casual and common in spoken Japanese.
「明日から宇宙に行くんだ。」「何言ってるの？」
"I'm going to space tomorrow." "What nonsense!"
Literally 'Don't say stupid things.' A direct, somewhat strong way to call something nonsense. More masculine and blunt.
To comment that a plan, idea, or situation is absurd or makes no sense.
The word ナンセンス exists in Japanese but is less common as an exclamation. Using it may sound unnatural or overly literal. The phrases above are more natural for expressing 'what nonsense!'.
馬鹿なことを言うな。そんなことあるわけないだろ。
What nonsense! There's no way that could happen.
Literally 'That's stupid/absurd.' A common exclamation of disbelief. Can be used in various situations.
「宝くじが当たったんだ。」「そんなばかな。」
"I won the lottery." "What nonsense!"
Literally 'Don't talk nonsense/rubbish.' でたらめ means 'nonsense' or 'random lies'. Stronger and more accusatory.
でたらめを言うな。証拠はあるのか。
What nonsense! Do you have any proof?
Literally 'impossible' or 'unbelievable'. Very common to dismiss something as nonsense or out of the question.
そんな話、ありえないよ。
That story is nonsense.
Literally 'It's not a joke.' Used when you find a suggestion or situation absurd and unacceptable.
今から仕事？冗談じゃないよ。
Work now? What nonsense!
An adjective meaning 'absurd', 'ridiculous', or 'nonsensical'. Can be used as an exclamation.
そんな言い訳、ばかばかしい。
That excuse is nonsense.