no compromise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "no compromise" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to express a firm stance or refusal to make concessions in a discussion or negotiation. Example: "In matters of principle, I believe in no compromise." Alternative expressions include "no concessions" and "zero tolerance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He takes a no compromise position.

The Guardian

Our goal was a no compromise design.

TechCrunch

No compromise.

The Guardian

There is no compromise.

The Guardian

No compromise was possible.

The Economist

No compromise was reached.

The New York Times

No compromise whatsoever.

The Guardian - Music

No compromise there, then.

The Guardian

No compromise, no argument.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

A no-compromise supergenius.

TechCrunch

"We have been guided by our no-compromise approach.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "no compromise" to signal absolute commitment to quality, values or a specific goal. When the phrase acts as a compound adjective before a noun, hyphenate it to form "no-compromise" for better clarity and grammatical accuracy.

Common error

Do not use "no compromise" to describe a simple failure to reach an agreement where both parties were willing. The phrase implies a deliberate and principled refusal to settle for less, so using it for a generic deadlock can sound overly dramatic or inaccurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "no compromise" functions primarily as a noun phrase often acting as a predicate nominative or the object of a preposition. It frequently appears as a compound adjective to modify a noun. According to Ludwig, it serves to describe a binary state where concessions are categorically excluded.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "no compromise" is a potent linguistic tool used to signal steadfastness and high standards. Analysis by Ludwig confirms its widespread use across authoritative sources like The New York Times, The Guardian and The Economist. It is particularly effective in political reporting to describe rigid stances and in business to highlight product quality without trade-offs. While functionally simple, writers should remember to hyphenate the phrase when using it as a pre-noun modifier. Overall, Ludwig AI classifies this as a correct and highly versatile phrase for any writer needing to convey a sense of absolute commitment or refusal to settle.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

zero tolerance

Focuses on the refusal to allow any deviation from established rules

no concessions

Specifically highlights the refusal to give up something during a negotiation

non-negotiable

Suggests a point or term that cannot be changed or discussed

unwavering stance

Emphasizes the steady and resolute nature of a person's position

hardline approach

Implies a strict and uncompromising political or social policy

no middle ground

Focuses on the binary nature of a choice where no compromise is possible

without trade-offs

Describes a situation where one benefit is not sacrificed for another

total inflexibility

Highlights a complete lack of adaptability or willingness to change

absolute standard

Suggests a level of quality that is never lowered or sacrificed

firm refusal

Centers on the act of saying no decisively to any suggested changes

FAQs

How to use "no compromise" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe a firm stance, such as "He took a "no compromise" position on the issue".

Is "no compromise" or "no-compromise" correct?

Both are correct; use the hyphenated version "no-compromise" when it precedes a noun as a modifier, and use ""no compromise"" when it functions as a noun phrase.

What is a professional synonym for "no compromise"?

In a professional context, you might use "non-negotiable" or "unwavering" to express a similar sentiment.

What does "no compromise" mean in product design?

In design, it implies that the creators refused to make "trade-offs" between conflicting features like performance, battery life and portability.