no backbone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "no backbone" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe someone who lacks courage or strength of character. An example: "He showed no backbone when he failed to stand up for his beliefs." Alternative expressions include "no spine" and "lack of resolve."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

He has no backbone".

The New Yorker

"And the politicians have no backbone.

The Guardian - Tech

No backbone, these fancy foreign pastries.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Now people think I have no backbone.

The New York Times

Republicans lost because they have no backbone.

The New York Times

"No backbone, no structural significance," he found.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Murrow's no-backbone higher-ups include Sid Mickelson Jeff Danielss) and President Bill Paley Frank Langellaa).

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Who were these people, trying to trick strangers into joining some cult that had no real backbone, no tenets, no faith?

Vice

"The agency showed no political backbone, no will to fight for consumers on this issue".

The New York Times

One concern is where to redraw the line if the backbone no longer marks a boundary.

The Washington Post

For its part, Level 3 is no longer the backbone firm of yore, moving bits efficiently among networks.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "no backbone" when you want to express that someone or something lacks the strength, courage, or determination to stand up for themselves or their beliefs.

Common error

Avoid using "no backbone" in literal contexts. It's a figurative expression; using it to describe a literal absence of a spine can be confusing or humorous when that's not your intention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "no backbone" functions as a descriptive term, often used as a noun phrase following a verb such as 'have' or 'show'. It's used figuratively to characterize a person or entity as lacking strength, courage, or resolve. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Academia

13%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "no backbone" is a common and readily understood idiom used to describe a lack of courage, resolve, or strength of character. As validated by Ludwig AI, it functions as a descriptive term, often used to negatively evaluate a subject's weakness or indecisiveness. While prevalent in news and media, its usage can extend to academic discussions and informal conversations. When aiming for a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "lacking resolve" or "indecisive" to convey a similar meaning without the potentially harsh connotation of "no backbone".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spineless

This is a direct synonym, emphasizing the absence of a strong character or moral fiber.

lack of resolve

This phrase focuses on the absence of determination or firmness in decision-making, rather than physical strength or structure.

lack of courage

This phrase directly addresses the absence of bravery or willingness to face challenges.

weak-willed

This describes someone who easily succumbs to pressure or temptation, lacking the will to resist.

lacking conviction

Emphasizes the absence of strong beliefs or principles, leading to indecisiveness or inconsistency.

irresolute

Describes a person who is hesitant or unable to make firm decisions, showing a lack of firmness.

lacking moral fiber

Focuses on the absence of ethical strength or integrity, implying a willingness to compromise principles.

easily influenced

Highlights the susceptibility to external pressures and opinions, indicating a lack of independent thought or conviction.

pushover

This term describes someone who is easily taken advantage of due to their lack of assertiveness.

compliant

This suggests a tendency to agree with others or follow instructions without questioning, indicating a lack of independent thought or resistance.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says a person has "no backbone"?

Saying someone has "no backbone" means they are weak-willed, lack courage, or are easily influenced. It suggests a deficiency in their ability to stand up for what they believe in or to assert themselves.

How can I use "no backbone" in a sentence?

You might say, "The politician showed "no backbone" when he refused to address the controversial issue" or "The company's "no backbone" approach to negotiations led to unfavorable terms."

What are some alternative phrases for "no backbone"?

Alternatives include "lacking resolve", "spineless", "weak-willed", or "easily influenced". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "no backbone" in formal writing?

While "no backbone" is widely understood, it can be perceived as somewhat informal or harsh. In formal writing, consider using more neutral alternatives like "lacking resolve" or "indecisive", depending on the context.