Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

no-win-situation

noun

/ˌnoʊ wɪn sɪˈtʃuːeɪʃən/

Definition

A circumstance in which one cannot achieve a satisfactory outcome or where all possible options lead to negative results.

Examples

When the company decided to cut costs by laying off employees, it created a no-win situation for everyone involved.
The debate over funding showed it was a no-win situation, where both sides faced criticism regardless of the decision made.
In negotiations, sometimes you find yourself in a no-win situation, where neither party is satisfied with the outcome.

Meaning

A no-win situation refers to a scenario where regardless of the actions taken, the result will be unfavorable. It often implies that every choice leads to an undesirable outcome, making it impossible to succeed or benefit from the situation.