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Nonstarter for Dummies

noun

pronunciation: nɑn'stɑrtɝr

What does Nonstarter really mean?

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Hey there, let's talk about the word "nonstarter" today!

Imagine being in a race, where everyone is striving to cross the finish line and win. Now, picture someone who starts the race but never even makes it past the starting line. They can't even get their feet moving forward, let alone reach the end of the race. That's what a "nonstarter" is.

So, when we use the word "nonstarter", we are describing something or someone that just doesn't have a chance of success. It refers to an idea, plan, or proposal that is unlikely to work out or gain support. It's like the starting point of something, but it quickly becomes clear that it won't go any further.

Let me give you an example to make it more relatable.

Imagine you have a favorite superhero, let's call them Super Star. Super Star has amazing powers, fights villains, and saves the day. But what if the superhero never even bothered to wear their cape, fly around, or fight any bad guys? Well, they wouldn't be much of a superhero, right? They would be a nonstarter because they aren't doing the things that make them great.

Similarly, when we use "nonstarter" in conversations, we are saying that something or someone isn't taking the necessary steps to achieve success or make things happen. It's like they show up to the race but don't even try to run.

Now, there is another meaning of "nonstarter" that is less commonly used but still important to know. In politics or business, a nonstarter can refer to a person or idea that simply cannot be accepted or agreed upon. It's like an idea that is so unrealistic or goes against everyone's beliefs that it is immediately dismissed.

Let's make it clearer with another example.

Imagine you and your friends are planning a trip to a theme park. You suggest going on roller coasters, getting ice cream, and watching a parade. Everyone loves your ideas except one friend who has extreme motion sickness. They just can't handle the roller coasters. So, for your friend, going on roller coasters is a nonstarter. It's something that is completely out of the question for them, as it would make them sick and ruin the fun.

So, remember, a "nonstarter" is something that doesn't have a chance of succeeding or gaining support, like an idea that is impractical or an action that isn't taken to achieve success. It can also refer to something that is immediately dismissed due to its impossibility or opposition to widely held beliefs.

Got it? Can you think of any other examples where "nonstarter" might apply?


Revised and Fact checked by Robert Williams on 2023-10-29 11:58:41

Nonstarter In a sentece

Learn how to use Nonstarter inside a sentece

  • Timothy wanted to host a party at his house, but since no one was available on the date he suggested, his plan to have the party became a nonstarter.
  • Nancy had the idea to start a lemonade stand in the winter, but since people usually prefer hot beverages during that season, her plan was a nonstarter.
  • The football team's strategy of running the ball for every play was a nonstarter because the opposing team had a very strong defense.
  • Jenny's dream of becoming a professional singer was a nonstarter because she never practiced and didn't have a good singing voice.
  • The idea of having a picnic in the pouring rain was a nonstarter since it would be uncomfortable and the food would get wet.

Nonstarter Synonyms

Words that can be interchanged for the original word in the same context.

Nonstarter Hypernyms

Words that are more generic than the original word.

Nonstarter Hyponyms

Words that are more specific than the original word.