Put Up With Foolishness

In Southern and Appalachian speech, "not put up with foolishness" means to refuse to tolerate bad behavior, nonsense, or shady dealings. It’s a firm rebuke and a warning that someone won’t be taken advantage of.

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synonyms: no-nonsense, won’t tolerate, fed up, won’t be fooled

Hillbilly Dude Says...

"She don’t put up with no foolishness. Last time somebody tried to run over her, she straightened it out real quick."

Pronunciation

[PUHT UP wihth FOO-lish-niss] /pʊt ʌp wɪð ˈfuː.lɪʃ.nəs/

Meaning & Usage

- Refuse to tolerate bad behavior (saying)

Luther:

They tried to charge her extra for that job.

Ruby:

She ain’t puttin’ up with that foolishness.

- Refuse silliness or nonsense (saying)

Nora:

Them boys were actin’ wild all night.

Estel:

I won’t put up with no foolishness in my house.

variations: don’t put up with no foolishness, won’t put up with that foolishness

★ This phrase is often said with pride or respect - describing someone as "not putting up with foolishness" means they’re strong, sharp, and not easily fooled. ★

Origin

While the word "foolishness" is centuries old, this set phrase became especially common in Southern and Appalachian talk during the 19th and 20th centuries. It served as a polite but firm way of saying one would not tolerate disrespect, dishonesty, or nonsense.

Notes

Usually applied to women of strong character: "She don’t put up with no foolishness."
Used as a compliment - it means someone is no-nonsense and stands up for themselves.
Common in everyday Southern/Appalachian speech, especially in family, church, and community settings.
The double negative form ("don’t put up with no"") is part of the natural dialect and adds emphasis.

Kin Topics

Common Questions

Does "not put up with foolishness" mean just silly antics?

No. In Southern/Appalachian speech it often points to dishonesty, disrespect, or shady behavior - not just childishness.

Is this phrase still common?

Yes. You’ll still hear it today in homes, churches, and conversations across the South and Appalachia.

Is it meant as an insult?

Not at all. It’s usually praise - describing someone as strong, serious, and unwilling to be pushed around.

Is this phrase Southern?

Yes. While you might hear it elsewhere, it’s most strongly tied to Southern and Appalachian English.

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