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 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

Representing multiple entities in pursuit of the same pots of money is a zero-sum game.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 11, 2026

If investors start to see the race for AI supremacy as more of a zero-sum game, that could also create problems for indexes like the S&P 500, Thompson said.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 23, 2025

That locked the two labs into a zero-sum game that only one could win unless both compromised significantly.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik