a loss for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a loss for" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is usually used in the context of describing a situation or person who is experiencing a sense of disappointment or defeat. Example: The CEO's sudden resignation was a loss for the company's future plans.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"Democracy has been a loss for us".

The New York Times

I'm at a loss for words".

The New York Times - Sports

I am at a loss for words".

Independent

"A loss for all of us".

The New Yorker

It is a loss for the sport".

The New York Times - Sports

This is a loss for all.

The New York Times

Kino was at a loss for words.

The New Yorker

It's a loss for us.

The Guardian

UAL reported a loss for January.

The New York Times

I was at a loss for words.

The New York Times

"You're at a loss for words.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a loss for", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is negatively affected by the loss. For instance, "The closure of the library is a loss for the community."

Common error

Avoid using "a loss for" when the situation results in a gain for someone or something else. The phrase should exclusively indicate a disadvantage, not a transfer of benefit. For example, saying "The team's defeat was a loss for their opponents" is incorrect; it was a gain for them.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a loss for" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically acting as an adjective to describe something that causes disadvantage or detriment to someone or something. Ludwig AI confirms this usage pattern, showing its frequent application in describing negative impacts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a loss for" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to denote a disadvantageous or detrimental situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it frequently appears in news, sports, and general contexts to highlight negative impacts. When writing, ensure the context clearly identifies who or what experiences the loss, and avoid using it when a gain is actually occurring for someone else. By understanding its correct usage, you can effectively convey the intended meaning of detriment or disadvantage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a detriment to

Stresses the damaging or harmful consequence.

detrimental to

Emphasizes the harmful or damaging aspect.

a blow to

Emphasizes the suddenness and force of the negative event.

a setback for

Focuses on the idea of a temporary delay or regression.

disadvantageous to

Highlights the element of being unfavorable or creating a handicap.

negative impact on

Focuses on the adverse influence or effect.

a disservice to

Implies an action that harms or is unfair to someone or something.

unfortunate for

Highlights the aspect of bad luck or negative outcome.

bad news for

Informal way of pointing out negative implications.

a pity for

Emphasizes the feeling of regret or sorrow over the negative outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "a loss for" in a sentence?

Use "a loss for" to describe something detrimental or disadvantageous to someone or something. For example, "The cancellation of the event is "a loss for" the local economy".

What are some alternatives to "a loss for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "detrimental to", "disadvantageous to", or "a setback for".

Is it correct to say "a loss for words"?

The idiom is "at a loss for words", which means being unable to think of something to say, often because of surprise or shock. "A loss for" is different, it indicates a disadvantage or detriment.

What's the difference between "a loss for" and "a loss to"?

"A loss for" indicates a detriment or disadvantage, whereas "a loss to" often refers to the passing away of someone who will be missed. For example, "His death is a great loss to the community".