above zero

USAGE SUMMARY

'above zero' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing temperatures or numerical values that are greater than zero. For example: "The temperature is currently above zero degrees Celsius."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Risk Takers" Abandon American Principles if the Risk Is Above Zero.

Huffington Post

It estimated that lower bound to be "close to, but a little above, zero". .

Los Angeles Times

At study end, all z-scores were normalised (above zero).

European Journal of Endocrinology

Note in each curve that an input signal significantly above zero is needed to raise the output signal above zero.

Biology Direct

Readings above zero indicate expansion.

The New York Times

Annual inflation is still barely above zero.

The New York Times

A reading above zero indicates expansion.

The New York Times

Any number above zero indicates growth.

The New York Times

It's always about a degree above zero".

The Guardian

Today, once Cameron started speaking, it never went above zero.

The Guardian

Or maybe there is no natural rate above zero.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing economic indicators, use "above zero" to denote expansion or growth, as readings above zero often signal positive economic activity.

Common error

Avoid assuming a value "above zero" always signifies a universally 'good' outcome; its interpretation depends heavily on the context. For instance, excess mortality averaging above zero means that observed mortality is above what was expected, representing a negative result.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "above zero" functions primarily as a descriptor, typically modifying a noun or serving as a predicate adjective. Ludwig AI states that the phrase is correct and usable when indicating temperatures or numerical values greater than zero. It can be used to specify a threshold or condition, as demonstrated in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "above zero" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe values that are greater than zero. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts, particularly when discussing temperatures or numerical values. Its frequency and consistent usage across news, science, and business domains highlight its versatility. While straightforward, understanding the context in which "above zero" is used is crucial, as its implications can vary. For example, in economics, it often signals growth, whereas in health metrics like excess mortality, it can indicate a negative outcome. Alternatives such as "greater than zero" or "positive value" can be used, depending on the desired level of formality and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

greater than zero

This alternative directly states the mathematical relationship.

more than zero

This option is a straightforward synonym.

positive value

This alternative shifts the focus to the nature of the value itself.

exceeding zero

This alternative uses a more formal verb to convey the increase.

beyond zero

This choice implies movement past the zero point.

not negative

This suggests a broader range of acceptable values, including zero.

in positive territory

This provides a more metaphorical, less precise description.

a positive number

This alternative specifies that it must be a numeric value.

above the baseline

It specifies a reference point (the baseline) from which the values are measured.

at a surplus

This is commonly used in financial contexts to indicate a value in profit.

FAQs

How can I use "above zero" in a sentence?

You can use "above zero" to describe values greater than zero, such as "The temperature is currently five degrees above zero" or "A reading above zero indicates expansion in the region's manufacturing".

What's a simple way to express "above zero"?

Alternatives include "greater than zero" or "more than zero", which are straightforward synonyms. Depending on the context, you might also use "positive value".

When is it appropriate to use "above zero" in economic discussions?

In economics, "above zero" is often used to indicate expansion or growth. For example, "Readings above zero indicate expansion". Other alternatives include "economic growth" or "positive growth".

Is there a context where "above zero" might not be positive?

Yes, in some contexts, such as when discussing excess mortality, a value "above zero" indicates that observed mortality is higher than expected, which represents a negative result.