negative Nelly
Always expects worse
A negative Nelly is someone who habitually focuses on the worst aspects of situations, always finding reasons why something won't work or dwelling on problems rather than solutions.
The rhyming name gives the term a slightly playful, teasing quality: Don't be such a negative Nelly—give it a chance.
Also negative Nancy.
- depressedPersistently sad, spiritless
- pessimistOne expecting negative outcomes
- glass half emptyNegative perspective on situations
- cynicDoubter of good intentions
- complainerOne who voices dissatisfaction
killjoy · miserable · downer · gloomy · naysayer · defeatist · grumbler · skeptic · faultfinder · mope · sad · wet blanket · Debbie Downer · Gloomy Gus · worrier · unhappy · woe is me · discouragement
negative Nellyoptimist
Habitually hopeful person
Pollyanna · eternal optimist · Little Miss Sunshine · hopeful · sunny disposition
negative Nellyray of sunshine
Incurably upbeat person
cheerleader · happy camper · encourager · good-time Charlie · life of the party
negative, negatively, negativity, negate, negation, negating, negated, Nelly