negative Nellies
Always expecting worse
Negative Nellies are people who habitually focus on problems, obstacles, or reasons something won't work.
The phrase suggests excessive pessimism or complaining: Don't be such negative Nellies—we haven't even tried yet.
The singular negative Nellie appears less often.
Nellie as a generic female name gives the expression a mildly dismissive, old-fashioned tone.
- pessimistOne expecting negative outcomes
- doubterOne who disbelieves
- cynicDoubter of good intentions
- complainerOne who voices dissatisfaction
- Debbie DownerHabitual negativity spreader
defeatist · wet blanket · sad sack · worrywart · Eeyore · skepticism · constant critic · buzzkill · grumbler · naysayer · downers · discouragement · party pooper · rain on parade · mood killer · self-doubt · demotivation · undermining
- negativistspessimists, defeatists, doomers, doomsayers, Debbie Downers
negative Nelliesoptimists
Those expecting favorable results
idealists · believers · dreamers · happy campers · Pollyanna
negative Nelliescheerleaders
Athletic event spirit rousers
morale boosters · encouragers · ray of sunshine · motivators · boosters
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