How to Memorize

get nada/zip from someone

Analysis

This is a very informal expression that originated in America, and as such you are not likely to hear it used amongst European speakers of English, unless in a sarcastic or humorous manner. It simply means that an action has resulted in a negative outcome or has produced nothing; or that you have no ideas about how to do something.

Social Examples (Basic)

1. James asked me to lend him some money, but I told him that I had none. Zip, nada. I was flat broke.
2. The police interviewed all the suspects but got nada. No one was willing to talk.

Professional Examples (Advance)

1. We were owed $50,000 by the company, but in the end, we got zip because they went out of business and the owner declared bankruptcy.
2. I put in a huge order but we got zip because of a problem with the supply chain.

Further Suggestions