Something is Better than Nothing: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on

June 30, 2023

The idiom "Something is Better than Nothing" is a commonly used phrase emphasizing that having even a small amount or portion of something is preferable to having nothing at all. It’s a phrase that values appreciating what one has, no matter how little.

In short:

"Something is Better than Nothing" is an optimistic phrase means possessing even a small degree of something is preferable to a complete lack of it.

What Does "Something is Better than Nothing" Mean?

The idiom "Something is Better than Nothing" is a statement of consolation or acceptance of a less-than-perfect situation. It captures the belief that a subpar outcome or result is still preferable to no outcome or result at all. Its simplicity conveys a profound truth about life, instilling a sense of gratitude and acceptance in the face of hardship or adversity.

It encourages acceptance of a less-than-ideal situation.
It promotes an attitude of gratitude for what one has, however minimal.
It teaches the principle of contentment and the value of resourcefulness.

Where Does "Something is Better than Nothing" Come From?

The idiom "Something is Better than Nothing" is a common expression used to convey the idea that having or receiving even a small or imperfect amount of something is preferable to having nothing at all. This phrase encapsulates the belief that having something, regardless of its quality or quantity, is better than having nothing. The exact origin of the idiom is unclear, as it seems to be a piece of the age-old wisdom that has been passed down through generations. It's a testament to human resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.

Historical Example

"Better have naught than nothing at all."

-Henry VI, William Shakespeare,1623

10 Examples of "Something is Better than Nothing" in Sentences

Here are some examples illustrating the use of the idiom in various contexts:

I arrived at the store a quarter to four, and even though they didn't have the exact item I was looking for, I decided to buy something else instead because something is better than nothing.
If you can't donate a hundred dollars to the charity, just give what you can. Remember, something is better than nothing.
He couldn't afford a new car, so he bought a used one. After all, something is better than nothing.
They decided to go ahead with the tried and tested plan, realizing that even though it may not be perfect, something is better than nothing.
They were disappointed by the low turnout at the fundraiser, but they felt that something is better than nothing.
I'd rather have a small piece of the pie than no pie at all because something is better than nothing.
Well, it's always good to have a plan B; something is better than nothing. Til next time, take care!
Even a small profit is better than a loss. After all, something is better than nothing.
It may not be the job of your dreams, but something is better than nothing.
Sometimes, tricking him into believing that something is better than nothing can be an effective way to get things done.

Examples of "Something is Better than Nothing" in Pop Culture

The idiom has found its way into various forms of popular culture; here are some notable instances:

In the TV show Friends, Joey says, "I didn't get the lead role, but a supporting part is better than nothing."
In the movie The Pursuit of Happyness, Chris Gardner's character says, "Even if we have to sleep in a homeless shelter tonight, it's better than nothing."
In the song "Better Than Nothing" by Jennifer Nettles, she sings about how being with someone who isn't perfect is still something is better than nothing at all.
In the video game The Sims, players are often encouraged to start with a small house or limited resources because something is better than nothing.
In the movie Up in the Air, Ryan Bingham advises his colleague, "Take that job offer even if it's not your dream job. Remember, something is better than nothing."
In the TV show How I Met Your Mother, Barney Stinson declares, "A one-night stand is definitely better than nothing, bro!"
In the song "Stronger" by Kanye West, he raps, "Find your dreams come true, and I wonder if you know what it means. Not sure for all the fame and money 'cause something is better than nothing."
In the book To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Atticus Finch advises his children, "Remember it's a sin to kill a mockingbird… but also remember that something is better than nothing."
In the TV series Breaking Bad, Walter White tells Jesse Pinkman, "We may not make much money from this deal, but something is better than nothing. Let's do it."
In the movie Rocky Balboa, Rocky motivates his son with these words: "You ain't gonna believe this, but you used to fit right here. I'd hold you up to say to your mother: 'This kid's gonna be the best kid in the world.' Something changed. And life goes on… But something is better than nothing."
In the song "Give Me Something" by Scars on 45, they sing: "If you can't give me forever, then just give me tonight. Something is better than nothing at all."

Other Ways to Say "Something is Better than Nothing"

Some other ways convey the same meaning as "Something is Better than Nothing."

Some of these include:

Half a loaf is better than no bread.
A penny saved is a penny earned.
A small step forward is still progress.
Any progress is better than standing still.
Even a single drop makes an ocean.
Something is better than zero.
Having a backup plan is better than having none.
Taking baby steps is better than not moving at all.
Starting with a little effort beats doing nothing.
Choosing the lesser evil is still preferable to choosing none.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Something is Better than Nothing"

What does the idiom "Something is Better than Nothing" mean?

It implies that having a small amount of something is preferable to having nothing at all.

Where did the idiom "Something is Better than Nothing" originate?

The exact origin is unknown, but it's a universal piece of wisdom that has been passed down through generations.

Can the idiom "Something is Better than Nothing" be used in any context?

Yes, it can be used in various contexts where there is a compromise or acceptance of a less than ideal situation.

Does "Something is Better than Nothing" encourage mediocrity?

Not necessarily. While it can be seen as promoting acceptance of less than perfect situations, it is often used to encourage gratitude for what one has, even if it's not ideal.

Can this idiom be used in a professional context?

Yes, it's often used to denote the value of small gains or progress in a professional setting, especially when the ideal outcome is not possible.

How can I use this idiom effectively in my daily conversation?

Use this idiom when you want to convey that it's better to have a little of something than to have nothing at all. It can be effectively used in situations involving compromise or acceptance.

Can this idiom be considered pessimistic?

Perceptions may vary. While some may view it as a reflection of pessimism or settling for less, others might see it as a realistic or pragmatic approach to life's situations.

Is this idiom popularly used in English-speaking countries?

Yes, "Something is Better than Nothing" is a commonly used idiom in English-speaking countries and is widely recognized and understood.

Can this idiom be found in literature?

Yes, the idiom is often used in literature to depict characters accepting less than perfect situations or making the best of what they have.

What are some synonyms of this idiom?

Similar phrases include "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush," "Half a loaf is better than none," and "Beggars can't be choosers."

Final Thoughts About "Something is Better than Nothing"

"Something is Better than Nothing" is an idiom that carries timeless wisdom about the value of gratitude and contentment. It encourages us to make the best of what we have, regardless of the circumstances. It teaches us to value even the smallest of wins and not disregard them simply because they do not meet our initial expectations.