as good as nonexistent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as good as nonexistent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is virtually absent or has no practical impact. Example: "The support from the management was as good as nonexistent, leaving the team to fend for themselves."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It never quite disappeared, but for decades it was as good as nonexistent, inaccessible and overrun by decay.

The Guardian - Arts

In some way this is not surprising if we consider that in the Germany of the early Enlightenment, the arts, particularly poetry and literature, were as good as nonexistent.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

What is interesting is that the fiction of the payout is quite as good as any nonexistent fact.

The Guardian - Film

The resulting immunity is as good as with the Sabin vaccine, but the risk of vaccine-induced polio is nonexistent.

The New York Times - Health

They're just as good as Mikimoto".

The New Yorker

Though still, they as good as throb.

The New Yorker

He is as good as his word.

Independent

Ricky tried as good as he could.

Independent

Rhonda gives as good as she gets.

The New York Times

It's as good as the Muppets.

Independent

As good as anything he's done.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as good as nonexistent", ensure the context clearly indicates a severe lack or absence, not just a minor deficiency.

Common error

Avoid using "as good as nonexistent" when the subject is merely inadequate or insufficient; reserve it for situations where the subject is virtually absent or has no discernible impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as good as nonexistent" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It indicates that something is nearly or practically absent, offering a strong way to express ineffectiveness or non-existence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as good as nonexistent" is a phrase used to describe something that is virtually absent or has no practical effect. Ludwig AI confirms that it follows standard grammar rules and is correct for use. While the phrase is not particularly common, it is suitable for various contexts, including news and media and scientific writing. When using it, ensure that the context genuinely implies a near absence rather than a mere deficiency. For alternatives, consider "virtually nonexistent" or "practically absent" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

virtually nonexistent

Emphasizes the near absence of something, making it almost nonexistent.

practically absent

Highlights the lack of practical presence or impact.

effectively absent

Focuses on the lack of any real effect or presence.

tantamount to nothing

Indicates that something is equivalent to having no value or effect.

for all intents and purposes nonexistent

A more formal way of saying something is considered nonexistent in practical terms.

as if it didn't exist

Expresses the idea that something is treated or functions as if it is not present.

next to nothing

Emphasizes a minimal amount or effect, close to being nonexistent.

scarcely there

Describes something that is barely present or noticeable.

almost imperceptible

Highlights that something is nearly impossible to perceive or detect.

in effect, absent

Similar to effectively absent, but with a slightly stronger emphasis.

FAQs

How can I use "as good as nonexistent" in a sentence?

Use "as good as nonexistent" to describe something that is virtually absent or has no practical impact. For example, "The support from the management was "as good as nonexistent", leaving the team to fend for themselves."

What are some alternatives to "as good as nonexistent"?

You can use alternatives like "virtually nonexistent", "practically absent", or "effectively absent" depending on the context.

Is "as good as nonexistent" formal or informal?

"As good as nonexistent" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but more formal alternatives like "virtually nonexistent" might be preferred in academic or professional writing.

When is it appropriate to use "as good as nonexistent"?

Use "as good as nonexistent" when something is so deficient that it is functionally absent or without effect. Avoid using it for situations where something is merely subpar or inadequate.