THE SHIT

What Does "The Shit" Mean?

Why Is There So Much Shit Everywhere?

The word "shit" is used for emphasis and to express emotions such as frustration and surprise. Due to its vulgarity, it has a rebellious nature and an attention-grabbing quality. Unfortunately though, the terms with the word shit are often idiomatic (i.e., not literal translations) and difficult to understand. Here is the term you are looking for:

"The Shit" means "Impressive, Excellent, The Best."

More Detail...

"The shit" is an informal and vulgar slang term used to express that something is impressive, excellent, or the best. For example:

Jo: That pizza was the shit!
Sam: I'm not sure it was quite that good, but the relish was the shit!

The phrase "the shit" can be quite confusing for non-native speakers or anyone unfamiliar with this particular usage, as "shit" is typically a negative term. However, in this context, it is used positively. Despite the positive meaning of "the shit," because of its vulgarity it is not appropriate in formal, professional, or polite conversation. Check out our complete guide to talking shit.

Image for The Shit

When I write The Shit, I mean this:

"Impressive, Excellent, The Best"

Summary of Key Points

"Impressive, Excellent, The Best" is, by far, the most common meaning for The Shit when it is used in a text. (Bear in mind that it could have another meaning if used in a different context.)