for nothing

phrase

1
: without reason
2
: at no charge

Examples of for nothing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hopefully everyone involved remembers that in a few months instead of canceling the season for nothing. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 6 Oct. 2026 The Reds and Marlins have long been eliminated from playoff contention and will be playing for nothing more than pride this week. — Chad Bishop, AJC.com, 22 Sep. 2026 Clearly, Drew is aiming for nothing less than complete reality TV/game show world domination. — Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 14 Sep. 2026 According to greenhead snobs, some of my best duck hunts were for nothing more than scraps? — Alex Robinson, Outdoor Life, 9 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for for nothing

Word History

First Known Use

1560, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of for nothing was in 1560

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Cite this Entry

“For nothing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/for%20nothing. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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