a big blow

USAGE SUMMARY

"a big blow" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used as a noun, often to describe a negative event that causes an emotional or financial setback. For example: "The news of the company's bankruptcy proved to be a big blow for all its employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It would be a big blow.

Independent

"It's a big blow," Stewart said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Losing Cap is a big blow".

The New York Times - Sports

It's obviously a big blow.

The New York Times

That was a big blow.

The New York Times - Sports

"This is a big blow for them.

The New York Times

That's a big blow for his chances.

The Guardian - Sport

"This is a big blow to terrorists".

The New York Times

It's a big blow for us.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr Guzman's departure is a big blow for the government.

The Economist

That would be a big blow to Mr Rubalcaba's standing.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a big blow" when you want to emphasize the negative impact or setback resulting from a particular event, especially in contexts where emotional or financial difficulties are involved.

Common error

While "a big blow" is a common idiom, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your vocabulary with synonyms like "significant setback" or "major disappointment" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big blow" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It serves to describe an event, situation, or piece of news that has a significantly negative impact. Ludwig examples show it used to denote setbacks in sports, business, and personal situations. It is often used to express the severity of the impact.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academic & Scientific

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big blow" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a significant negative event or setback. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. Its frequency is very high, primarily appearing in News & Media. When using this phrase, consider its slightly informal tone and whether a more formal alternative like "significant setback" might be more appropriate. Avoid overuse and ensure the context aligns with the expression of concern or highlighting serious adverse consequences. Always ensure you are clear on how this impactful event/situation negatively affects the recipient.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant setback

Emphasizes the setback aspect more directly, using 'setback' instead of 'blow'.

a painful setback

Highlights the emotional pain and difficulty caused by the negative event.

a major disappointment

Focuses on the feeling of disappointment resulting from the event.

a setback of great magnitude

A more formal and emphatic way to describe a significant setback.

a serious disadvantage

Highlights the disadvantageous position created by the event.

a crushing defeat

Suggests a more decisive and demoralizing loss.

a bitter pill to swallow

Highlights the unpleasantness and difficulty in accepting the situation.

a heavy burden

Emphasizes the weight and difficulty imposed by the event.

a considerable reverse

Emphasizes the backward or opposite direction of progress caused by the event.

a tough break

An informal way of expressing an unfortunate event or setback.

FAQs

How can I use "a big blow" in a sentence?

You can use "a big blow" to describe a significantly negative event or setback, such as "The closure of the factory was "a big blow" to the local economy".

What can I say instead of "a big blow"?

You can use alternatives like "a significant setback", "a major disappointment", or "a crushing defeat" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a big blow" in formal writing?

While "a big blow" is widely understood, more formal alternatives like "a significant setback" or "a considerable reverse" might be more suitable for academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "a big blow" and "a minor setback"?

"A big blow" indicates a substantial negative impact, whereas "a minor setback" suggests a small, temporary delay or inconvenience.