Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
I am defeated
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "I am defeated" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a feeling of having lost or being overcome by a challenge or situation. Example: "After the long and exhausting debate, I must admit that I am defeated in convincing them of my point."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
4 human-written examples
"I am defeated by the rationale of it," he says.
News & Media
But here I am, defeated again.
News & Media
But I will not lie and say that I am defeated.
News & Media
If I am defeated in the upcoming congressional primary, our ideas will be held to have been defeated as well.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
56 human-written examples
I am conquering my illness; I am defeating it steadily each day.
News & Media
Had I been defeated?
News & Media
I was defeated".
News & Media
pic.twitter.com/igcOeAaxkY #AskNigelFarage 'Waterloo, I was defeated you won the war'.
News & Media
I was defeated and bullied in the toxic environment that schools have become.
News & Media
I was defeated in that enterprise by the demands of maintenance.
News & Media
In the English Civil Wars, the absolutist king Charles I was defeated by the forces of Parliament and eventually executed.
Encyclopedias
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "I am defeated", follow up with an explanation to enhance the impact of your message. Clarify the reason for your defeat and explain how the defeat influenced your feelings.
Common error
Avoid using "I am defeated" in situations where a more nuanced or less dramatic expression would be more appropriate. Overusing it can make you sound overly dramatic or self-pitying.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "I am defeated" primarily functions as a declarative statement expressing a state of being. It uses the verb "to be" to link the subject "I" with the adjective "defeated", indicating the speaker's current condition. Examples from Ludwig confirm this usage.
Frequent in
News & Media
55%
Wiki
18%
Encyclopedias
12%
Less common in
Science
8%
The Guardian - Books
4%
Brain Structure and Function
3%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "I am defeated" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to convey a sense of having lost a struggle or being overcome by a challenge. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to declare a state of surrender or resignation. While applicable in various contexts, including News & Media, Wiki, and Encyclopedias, its formality remains neutral. For alternative expressions, consider phrases like ""I am beaten"" or ""I have lost"", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Ensure you use the phrase appropriately, avoiding overuse in contexts where a less dramatic expression is more suitable.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
I have lost
A simple and straightforward expression of defeat, lacking the emotional intensity of "I am defeated".
I am beaten
A more direct and physical sense of defeat, implying a loss in a competition or struggle.
I admit defeat
A more active and conscious acknowledgment of losing.
I am overwhelmed
Focuses on being emotionally or mentally overcome by circumstances.
I have been overcome
Similar to "I am overwhelmed", but suggests an external force or influence is responsible for the defeat.
I am conquered
Suggests a complete and decisive defeat, often in a more metaphorical sense.
I am bested
Implies being outdone or surpassed by someone or something, often in a skill or competition.
I yield
Suggests surrendering or giving way to an opponent or situation.
I am subdued
Suggests a forced submission or being brought under control.
I capitulate
Implies a formal surrender, often after prolonged resistance.
FAQs
What does "I am defeated" mean?
The phrase "I am defeated" expresses a feeling of having lost or been overcome by a challenge, opponent, or situation. It indicates a state of surrender or resignation.
What can I say instead of "I am defeated"?
You can use alternatives like "I am beaten", "I am overwhelmed", or "I have lost" depending on the context.
Is it grammatically correct to say "I am defeated"?
Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Defeated" is used as a predicate adjective describing the state of the subject "I".
When is it appropriate to use the phrase "I am defeated"?
It is appropriate to use "I am defeated" when you want to convey a strong sense of having been overcome by something, whether it's a personal struggle, a competition, or a difficult situation.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested