zero-sum

American  

[zeer-oh-suhm] / ˈzɪər oʊˌsʌm /

adjective

1. of or denoting a system in which the sum of the gains equals the sum of the losses.

   a zero-sum economy.

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Etymology

Origin of zero-sum

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

zero-sum

The proposition’s supporters did not want to see a zero-sum game — where new arts money simply replaced existing arts money.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 29, 2026

“This is a rapidly expanding market, not a zero-sum game,” Intrator said.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 21, 2026

Family history is important when it comes to longevity, but it’s not a zero-sum game.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 13, 2026

He added: "This is not a zero-sum game. It's not a question of employers win and employees lose and vice versa. Everybody can win."

From BBC ● Jul. 3, 2026

It was a zero-sum bet: If you made $100 million, the guy who had sold you the credit default swap lost $100 million.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis