Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

good-for-nothing

Adjective
/ˌɡʊd.fərˈnʌθ.ɪŋ/
Definition
A person who is ineffective or useless; someone who does not contribute positively.
Examples
  • Despite his potential, he was seen as a good-for-nothing by his peers.
  • She decided to stop dating him because he was a good-for-nothing who never took responsibility.
  • The good-for-nothing excuses he made for not completing his work frustrated his boss.
Meaning
The term describes someone who lacks the ability to be productive or helpful in any meaningful way. It often carries a negative connotation.
Synonyms
  • useless
  • ineffective
  • worthless
  • ne’er-do-well