Idiom / PhraseSayings & Idioms

Duck and Doll and Bugger-All

[duhk and dahl and buhg-er awl]

Pan-Diaspora· Classic witty Anglo-Indian kitchen retort

Also spelled: shit and sugar, plain fare

Community Definitions1

Definition #1

A cheeky, traditional comeback given when inquisitive family members pester the cook asking what is for dinner and there is nothing fancy prepared.

“When the children barged into the kitchen asking what was for lunch, Nana waved them away with, "Duck and doll and bugger-all!"”

Contributed by Pepperwater

Oct 18, 2026

A pious, habitual caveat appended to any statement about future travel, appointments, or gatherings, acknowledging providence.

Speaking at tremendous speed, animatedly, and without pause, especially when exchanging neighborhood news or family gossip.

Dragging out a conversation unnecessarily, exaggerating every detail, or blabbing endlessly when a quick concise answer is wanted.