Dead loss

/dˈɛd lˈɒs/

/dˈɛd lˈɔs/

[noun]

Dead loss

[NOUN]

a situation or activity that is not productive

What is the origin of the idiom "dead loss" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "dead loss" is uncertain, but it is used to describe something that is completely useless or ineffective in a given situation. This phrase is used in this context to indicate that the thing in question is incapable of producing any positive results or benefits, and is therefore a waste of time, effort, or resources. This usage of the phrase has been in use since at least the early 20th century, and it has been applied to a wide range of things, including products, strategies, ideas, and people. In general, the phrase is used to express a sense of frustration or disappointment with something that has failed to deliver the desired results.

someone who accomplishes nothing or is of no use

What is the origin of the idiom "dead loss" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "dead loss" is uncertain, but it is used to describe a person who is considered to be completely useless or ineffective in a given situation. This phrase is used in this context to indicate that the person in question is incapable of producing any positive results or benefits, and is therefore a liability or hindrance to any effort or project. This usage of the phrase has been in use since at least the mid-20th century, and it has been applied to a wide range of people, including employees, colleagues, and acquaintances. In general, the phrase is used to express a sense of frustration or disappointment with someone who has failed to meet expectations or deliver the desired results.

Examples

1. Also battling the canneries tight schedule, Captain Johnathan Hillstrand races to deliver in just 56 hours or risk 10 days of dead loss waiting for the next available appointment.

2. His nephew, Philip, on the injured reserve list, John's remaining crew must haul with machine-like efficiency or risk missing their offload and losing thousands of dollars in dead loss.

3. Where the conquest by a state or empire tends to drive down rates of violence in the subjugated people not because the early kings and emperors had a benevolent interest in the welfare of their citizens but rather because tribal raiding and feuding is a nuisance to imperial overlords since it just settles scores among them or shuffles resources at a dead loss to the king or emperor who just as soon keep the people alive to supply him with taxes and soldiers and slaves.

Nearby words