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

In the article, entitled “The Arithmetic of Active Management,” Sharpe showed that, while beating the market is a win-lose, zero-sum game before transaction costs, it is a lose-lose, negative-sum game after those costs.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

"We're realistic about the competition but the global sportswear landscape is not a zero-sum game," an Anta spokesperson tells the BBC.

From BBC • Apr. 26, 2026

In this zero-sum view of the world, any perceived enemies must not merely be defeated but vanquished altogether.

From Salon • Mar. 10, 2026

“Now there’s a record. It’s easy when you’re the activist fighting the system. But when you’re in there, you realize it’s a zero-sum game,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 17, 2026

The credit default swap was a zero-sum game.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis