# can't carry a tune in a bucket

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/cant-carry-a-tune-in-a-bucket
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Sings very badly.

## Examples

- I love to sing, but I cannot carry a tune in a bucket.
- My brother tries to sing along with the radio, but he cannot carry a tune in a bucket.
- Despite his immense passion for opera, the poor man simply cannot carry a tune in a bucket, much to the dismay of his neighbors.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.