Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

lose-lose

adjective
/ˈluːz ˌluːz/
Definition
A situation in which both parties end up worse off than they were before.
Examples
  • In negotiations, a fail-safe approach should be avoided to prevent a lose-lose outcome.
  • Choosing to ignore the problem led to a lose-lose situation for both teams.
Meaning
The term ‘lose-lose’ describes a scenario where all involved individuals face negative consequences or losses, rather than achieving a positive outcome.
Synonyms
  • negative-sum
  • mutually detrimental
  • counterproductive