Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
carry coals to Newcastle
idiom
/ˈkæri koʊlz tə ˈnjuːˌkæsl/
Definition
To do something pointless or redundant, especially to bring something to a place that already has plenty of it.
Examples
- It feels like carrying coals to Newcastle to bring your expertise to this already thriving tech hub.
- Trying to sell umbrellas in a place known for its perpetual rain is like carrying coals to Newcastle.
Meaning
This phrase originates from the fact that Newcastle, during the 19th century, was a major coal mining region in England, making the act of bringing coal to the city unnecessary.
Synonyms
- Pointless effort
- Redundant action
- Superfluous task
