not want to do that: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "nothing doing" is closely related to the phrase "not want to do that." Both expressions convey a strong sense of reluctance or refusal towards a particular action or activity. While "not want to do that" indicates a personal decision to avoid or refuse the proposed task, "nothing doing" adds a more emphatic tone, indicating a steadfast refusal or a complete lack of willingness to engage in the mentioned action. For example, if someone suggests going skydiving and you respond with "not want to do that," it signifies your disinclination or lack of desire to participate. However, if you respond with "nothing doing," it conveys an even stronger opposition or refusal, leaving no room for negotiation or persuasion. Similarly, the idiom "not for the world" shares the same sentiment as "not want to do that." When someone says "I would not do that for the world," they are expressing a strong aversion or unwillingness to engage in a particular action under any circumstances. It emphasizes the speaker's conviction and unwillingness to be persuaded, indicating a deep-rooted opposition or refusal. The idiom "not be caught dead" is another expression closely related to "not want to do that." It conveys a strong sense of opposition or dislike towards a specific action or situation. When someone says "I would not be caught dead doing that," they are expressing a complete aversion or unwillingness to engage in the mentioned activity. This idiom adds a dramatic and often humorous tone to the refusal, implying that the speaker finds the proposed action utterly undesirable or embarrassing. Additionally, the phrase "I don't fancy yours" is related to the idiom "not want to do that." While "not want to do that" indicates a general lack of desire or willingness to engage in a particular action, "I don't fancy yours" adds a hint of personal preference or taste. It suggests that the speaker not only lacks interest in the proposed action but also finds it unappealing or unsuitable for their specific preferences or interests. Lastly, the idiom "can't stand" is closely related to "not want to do that." It indicates a strong dislike or aversion towards a specific action or situation. When someone says "I can't stand doing that," they are expressing a deep-seated opposition, often due to a personal dislike or discomfort associated with the proposed activity. This phrase adds an emotional element to the refusal, emphasizing the speaker's strong negative feelings towards the mentioned action. Overall, these idiomatic expressions encapsulate varying degrees of reluctance, refusal, and opposition towards a particular action or activity. While "not want to do that" expresses a general lack of desire or willingness, "nothing doing," "not for the world," "not be caught dead," "I don't fancy yours," and "can't stand" amplify the refusal or opposition, conveying a stronger sense of reluctance or aversion.