Naught: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in literary or historical contexts when referring to 'nothing' or 'zero'. This word is archaic and rarely used in modern speech.

• 'All their efforts were for naught
• '

Used in mathematical, computational, or scientific contexts to refer to the numeric digit 0. It can also imply the lowest point or quantity of something.

• 'The temperature dropped to zero degrees
• '

This is the most common way to describe the absence of anything. It can be used in almost any informal or formal situation.

• 'There is nothing in the fridge
• '

A very informal, slang term for nothing. Often used to emphasize the complete lack of something, sometimes with a slightly humorous or casual tone.

• 'I have zilch interest in that topic
• '

Used in old English or poetic contexts to mean 'nothing.' It conveys a sense of absolute insignificance or worthlessness.

• All their efforts were for naught
• His promises came to naught

Very common in everyday use to indicate the absence of anything. Neutral connotation and versatile usage.

• I have nothing to do today
• She said nothing during the meeting

Commonly used in mathematical or quantitative contexts to denote the number '0.' Neutral connotation and used in both formal and informal settings.

• The score was zero to zero
• She has zero interest in sports

Often used in a more emotional or philosophical context to describe a complete emptiness or lack of something significant. Can have a negative or neutral connotation depending on the usage.

• His departure left a void in my heart
• The contract is now void since it was not signed

This word is rarely used in modern English and is considered archaic. It can be used in poetic or historical contexts to mean nothing or zero.

• All their efforts were for naught.
• The old machinery was worth naught.

Generally refers to a profound immorality or wickedness, especially when it causes harm or destructive actions. It can be used in everyday conversation or literature to describe malevolence.

• The villain in the story was pure evil.
• They believe that greed is the root of all evil.

Mostly used to describe morally wrong actions or behaviors, often with a sense of strong disapproval. It is more intense than 'naught' but can be used interchangeably with 'evil' in certain contexts.

• The witch was known for her wickedness.
• He was punished for his wickedness.

Often used in religious or moral contexts to describe an action that goes against divine law or moral principles. It is also common in everyday language to describe minor wrongdoings with a lighter tone.

• Lying is considered a sin in many cultures.
• Eating too much chocolate is my one sin.