# no dice

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/no-dice
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

An unacceptable alternative.

## Examples

- I asked for a discount, but the manager said no dice.
- We tried to get tickets for the sold-out concert at the last minute, but it was no dice.
- Despite our most persuasive arguments and the promise of future cooperation, the committee ultimately concluded that it was no dice for our proposal.

## Origin

Attested from the early 20th century, the phrase originates in the game of craps to describe a throw that lands off the table. Such a toss is ruled invalid, requiring the shooter to roll again, as the result provides no score and no progress for the players involved.

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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.