contribute zero

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contribute zero" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something or someone adds no value or impact to a situation or outcome. Example: "In this discussion, I feel that his opinions contribute zero to the overall understanding of the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

As a result, new 180° domains generate with the domain walls paralleling to the prestress direction and they contribute zero to energy dissipation under following periodic vibration stress, thus causing damping capacity decrease.

Journal of Alloys and Compounds

New forecasts from the Office of Budget Responsibility (OBR) show oil companies that were providing £11bn of tax revenues as recently as 2012 will contribute zero in 2015-16, moving to minus £1.1bn in 2016-17 - a loss that will be repeated annually until at least 2021.

The Guardian - Business

In this context, if we assumed that players are selfish, the unique subgame perfect Nash equilibrium would result in the inefficient outcome where all players contribute zero at every period.

SERIEs

Then, the opposite-phase electron waves in the two nonresonant channels contribute zero to the quantum interference, so in such a case, no spin accumulation occurs in QD-2. Figure 4 The influence of Coulomb interactions on the spectra of 〈 n 2 s 〉.

Nanoscale Research Letters

This produces genotypes that contribute zero, one or two units of risk to the liability distribution depending of course on the mathematical function.

Genetic Epidemiology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Flowers and Allianz would contribute five billion each in new capital.

The New Yorker

The rest of the offense could only contribute six hits.

The New York Times - Sports

He wants them to contribute ten per cent.

The New Yorker

Each company will contribute seven directors to the board.

The New York Times

All three sisters contribute three part vocal harmony.

Wikipedia

Label boss Sanfuentes and rising techno star Mijo contribute two remixes on the flipside.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contribute zero", ensure the context is clear about what is expected or desired. For example, clarify what contributions would be valuable.

Common error

Avoid using "contribute zero" when there is a minimal, rather than non-existent, contribution. Opt for phrases like "contribute very little" or "have a minimal impact" to maintain accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contribute zero" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating a complete lack of contribution or impact. This is supported by Ludwig, confirming the phrase is correct and usable. The examples show it modifies nouns to describe energy dissipation or tax revenue.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "contribute zero" is a grammatically sound and valid expression used to denote a complete absence of contribution or impact. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, although its occurrence is relatively rare. While alternatives like "add nothing" or "provide no value" exist, "contribute zero" emphasizes a quantifiable lack of input. Its register is generally neutral, making it appropriate for both formal and informal communication. To use it effectively, ensure the context clearly defines the expected contribution and avoid employing it when a minimal contribution is present.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

add nothing

Focuses on the absence of addition or value.

provide no value

Emphasizes the lack of benefit or worth.

make no contribution

Highlights the absence of a positive input.

have no impact

Stresses the lack of influence or effect.

offer no assistance

Focuses on the absence of help or support.

yield no results

Highlights the lack of outcomes or success.

bring nothing to the table

Idiomatic expression for offering no useful skills or resources.

amount to nothing

Suggests a lack of significance or importance.

be of no consequence

Implies a lack of importance or relevance.

not make a difference

Indicates a lack of positive change or effect.

FAQs

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

You can use "contribute zero" to indicate that something or someone has no positive impact or adds no value in a given situation. For example, "His opinions "contribute zero" to the discussion because he lacks experience in the subject."

What are some alternatives to "contribute zero"?

Alternatives include "add nothing", "provide no value", or "make no contribution", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "contribute nothing" or "contribute zero"?

Both "contribute nothing" and "contribute zero" are grammatically correct, but "contribute zero" emphasizes a quantifiable lack of contribution. The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

When is it appropriate to use "contribute zero" instead of "contribute very little"?

"Contribute zero" should be used when there is absolutely no positive impact or addition. If there is a minimal, though insignificant, contribution, "contribute very little" is more appropriate.