no dice

idiom

Meaning

An unacceptable alternative.

Origin

disputed origin

A term used in the game craps when the dice land off the table, invalidating the throw.

Examples

SIMPLE

I asked for a discount, but the manager said no dice.

CONTEXTUAL

We tried to get tickets for the sold-out concert at the last minute, but it was no dice.

COMPLEX

Despite our most persuasive arguments and the promise of future cooperation, the committee ultimately concluded that it was no dice for our proposal.

Anchors to

Dice

Related idioms4entries

01
dice roll
Something unpredictable or unexpected.
02
rats and mice
[Cockney slang]dice
03
roll of the dice
A risky or uncertain attempt to do something, especially in an unfavourable situation.
04
throw of the dice
Synonym of roll of the dice.