Bullshit vs Crap

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Bullshit

InformalTop 2,000 (common)

Crap

SlangTop 2,000 (common)
Most formal: Bullshit
 BullshitCrap
Pronunciation🇬🇧 //ˈbʊlʃɪt//🇺🇸 //ˈbʊlʃɪt//🇬🇧 //kræp//🇺🇸 //kræp//
MeaningNonsense or something untrue.bad or worthless stuff
ExampleI can't believe you fell for that bullshit.This movie is total crap.
RegisterInformalSlang
How commonTop 2,000 (common)Top 2,000 (common)
Collocationscall bullshit, talk bullshit, feed bullshittotal crap, talk crap, load of crap, crap out, think it's crap
Antonymstruth, facttreasure, delight, goodness
Common mistakesUsing it in formal writing or speech., Confusing with 'bull' or 'shit' as separate terms.Confused with 'crap' vs 'crap out' meaning to fail or stop working., Misused as a formal term; it's very informal., Often used too frequently; should be used sparingly in speech.
Usage notesUsed primarily in casual speech. Avoid in formal settings or around people who might find it offensive.Used informally to express disappointment or to describe poor quality. Avoid in formal or professional settings.

See it in real clips

Bullshit
Crap

Frequently asked questions: Bullshit vs Crap

What's the difference between Bullshit and Crap?

Bullshit: Nonsense or something untrue. Crap: bad or worthless stuff

Which is more formal: Bullshit and Crap?

Bullshit is the most formal of these.

Can you show an example of each?

Bullshit: I can't believe you fell for that bullshit. Crap: This movie is total crap.

Can I use Bullshit and Crap interchangeably?

Not always. Bullshit and Crap are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

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