no dice

N

no dice

Meaning

• not agree for something
• refusal to do something
• refuse to accept a proposition
• not possible

Example Sentences

1. The children asked whether they could all go out for a camping trip, but no dice, their parents refused.
2. We asked the company whether they would issue a refund if we did not use their product, but no dice.
3. Would I get a train at this time of night? No dice.
4. Are you coming out with us for lunch? No dice, I have a lot of work to do, I’ll have something from the cafeteria.
5. Would be able to help me out with this? No dice, I have my hands full at the moment.
6. We tried to find a room at the hotel, but no dice, it was fully booked at this time of the year.
7. I thought they would turn up for the event, but no dice, they were nowhere to be seen.

Origin

The phrase originated in the USA in the early 20th century. Gambling was illegal in many states and the gamblers took considerable trouble to hide their dice when confronted by the police. The rule said no dice, no conviction; so gamblers escaped punishment if the dice was not found.