zero
The number 0, meaning no amount.
The number that represents the absence of any quantity or value, written as 0.
When there is nothing of something, or it has no importance.
A state in which something does not exist or has no importance, effect, or value.
To make a tool or machine show 0 before using it.
To set a measuring device or instrument so that it shows zero before taking measurements.
Having none of something; no amount or effect.
Having no measurable quantity, level, or effect; amounting to nothing.
- Base: zero
- Plural: zeroes, zeros
- Base: zero
- 3rd Person Singular: zeroes, zeros
- Present Participle: zeroing
- Past: zeroed
- Past Participle: zeroed
back to square one (back to zero)
1Return to start after failure
To start again from the beginning after failing or losing progress.
- After the deal fell through, they were back to square one.
- We are back to zero with this project after the computer crash.
from zero to hero
1Go from failure to success
To change from being unsuccessful to being very successful.
- In one season, the team went from zero to hero.
- He went from zero to hero after his invention became popular.
zero in on
1Focus closely on something
To give all your attention to one thing or target it exactly.
- The police have zeroed in on a suspect.
- She quickly zeroed in on the main problem during the meeting.
absolute zero
1Lowest possible temperature
The coldest temperature possible, −273.15°C, where atoms stop moving.
- Scientists have never reached absolute zero, but have come very close.
- Scientists have cooled gases close to absolute zero.
- At absolute zero, molecular motion stops entirely.
- Absolute zero is −273.15°C.
zero tolerance
1No exceptions policy for rules
A rule or law that does not allow any breaking of it at all.
- The school has a zero tolerance policy on bullying.
- The school has a zero tolerance policy for bullying.
- There is zero tolerance for drunk driving in this state.
- Many airlines now claim to have zero tolerance for violent passengers.
- The company announced zero tolerance toward sexual harassment in the workplace.