Perish the thought

usgb
phrase

An exclamation expressing a strong dislike or rejection of an idea.

Get a job in sales? Perish the thought!
Visual representation of "perish the thought" - An exclamation expressing a strong dislike or rejection of an idea.

Often appears as...

  • should i ever
  • god forbid

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial,Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "perish the thought"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Strong Rejection

Expresses that you really don't want something to happen or believe it shouldn't.

Illustration for Strong Rejection
Move to the city? Perish the thought, I love the countryside!
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Serious

It can be used humorously to strongly reject something that's not likely to occur.

Illustration for Not Serious
Me, wake up before sunrise? Perish the thought!
LampPro Tip 3/3

Informal Settings

It's used in casual conversation. Avoid using it in formal or serious situations.

Illustration for Informal Settings
Give up coffee? Perish the thought!
Visual representation of the word "Perish the thought"

Never forget "Perish the thought"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension