nothing if not (something)

nothing if not (something)

Most characteristically something; having some trait more than anything else. In this phrase, "not" is always followed by a modifier of some kind that is emphasized as the person's or thing's most prominent attribute. He's nothing if not generous—that's his third donation this week. I am nothing if not patient, but even I have my breaking point. For all its faults, you have to admire the design of the device. It's nothing if not elegant to look at.

See also: if, not, nothing

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

nothing if not

Above all else, as in He was nothing if not discreet. Shakespeare used this idiom in Othello (2:1): "I am nothing if not critical." [c. 1600]

See also: if, not, nothing

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

ˈnothing if not something

(informal) (used for emphasis) very; very much a particular type of person: She’s nothing if not fair. ♢ Her work is nothing if not original.

See also: if, not, nothing, something

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017