Carry, take, etc. coals to Newcastle

usgb
phrase

To do something that is unnecessary because it exists or has been done before.

Guidebooks are giving advice on where to buy tea in China - it's like carrying coals to Newcastle!
Visual representation of "carry, take, etc. coals to Newcastle" - To do something that is unnecessary because it exists or has been done before

Often appears as...

  • carrying coals to newcastle means
  • like coals to newcastle

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "carry, take, etc. coals to Newcastle"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Cultural Origin

The phrase originates from Newcastle, England, known for its coal production.

Illustration for Cultural Origin
Explaining snow to an Eskimo is like carrying coals to Newcastle.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Idiomatic Usage

Use this phrase to express that an action is redundant.

Illustration for Idiomatic Usage
Donating ice in the Arctic is like taking coals to Newcastle.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Cultural Understanding

Understand the irony by knowing Newcastle doesn't need more coal.

Illustration for Cultural Understanding
A solar panel salesman in the Sahara is like taking coals to Newcastle.
Visual representation of the word "Carry, take, etc. coals to Newcastle"

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