What does “It’s a Wash” mean?
"It's a wash" means that the outcome is a tie or there is no clear winner.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After a long and intense game, the final score was 0-0, so it's a wash.
Example
Both teams played exceptionally well, but in the end, it was a wash.
Example
The judges couldn't decide on a winner, so they declared it a wash
Is “It’s a Wash” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“It’s a Wash” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “It’s a Wash” effectively in context?
You can use "It's a Wash" to describe a situation where the outcome is a tie or there is no clear winner. It emphasizes that the efforts put into something have resulted in no significant advantage for either side. For example, if two teams play a game and the final score is tied, you can say, 'After a long and intense game, the final score was 0-0, so it's "a wash".'
- 1Sports
Both teams played exceptionally well, but in the end, it was a wash.
- 2Competition
The judges couldn't decide on a winner, so they declared it a wash.
- 3Negotiation
After hours of discussion, they realized they couldn't reach an agreement, so they considered it a wash.
Similar phrases to “It’s a Wash”:
Even-Steven
To describe a situation where everything is equal or balanced
Example
They both scored the same number of points, so it's even-steven.
To describe a situation where neither side wins or loses
Example
The chess match ended in a draw.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “It’s a Wash” come from?
The origin of the phrase "It's a Wash" is unknown.
Is “It’s a Wash” common in everyday conversation?
"It's a Wash" is a relatively common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used in informal settings to describe situations where there is no clear winner or advantage.
What tone does “It’s a Wash” have?
"It's a Wash" conveys a tone of neutrality and acceptance. It implies that the outcome is not favorable or unfavorable, but rather equal or inconclusive.
Can “It’s a Wash” be used in informal and formal settings?
"It's a Wash" is commonly used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts, such as sports, competitions, or negotiations. It is suitable for everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations like business meetings or presentations.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The game ended in a tie, so it's "a wash".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Well, it's "a wash".' to imply a tie or inconclusive outcome.
