What does nonstarter mean?
A nonstarter is a person or undertaking that is highly unlikely to succeed. The expression can describe a candidate who appears unfit for a role, a project with unrealistic prospects, or a proposal that supporters of an idea regard as hopeless. It is especially common in political, commercial, and media discussion, where the implication is that the person or plan lacks the basic qualities needed to succeed. Calling something a nonstarter is often a quick, blunt judgment rather than a carefully demonstrated conclusion, so the term may convey impatience or dismissal. Nevertheless, it is useful because it captures a distinctly practical concern: not merely that an idea is unpopular or imperfect, but that it is unlikely to get off the ground. In informal argument, identifying a nonstarter early can prevent considerable time, money, and effort from being devoted to a hopeless endeavor.
nounA person, project, proposal, or other undertaking that has little or no prospect of succeeding. The term often implies that the effort is doomed or unsuitable from the outset.
- A person who is unlikely to succeed in a role, competition, or undertaking.
- A proposal, project, product, or other undertaking that is unlikely to succeed or prove viable.
"The proposal was dismissed as a political nonstarter before the committee even considered its merits."
"The company withdrew plans for expansion after economists called the scheme a commercial nonstarter."
"Several candidates were considered nonstarters, but two emerged as credible contenders."
The standard plural form, used for multiple people, proposals, projects, or other things unlikely to succeed.
"The organizers eliminated several obvious nonstarters before the final round."
Calling something a nonstarter is a diplomatic way of saying that it never had a realistic chance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
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How nonstarter is actually used
This is informal jargon, especially common in business, politics, sports, and media. It is generally dismissive rather than neutral and is often used before a person's or undertaking's prospects have been fully assessed.