a profound loss

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a profound loss" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or deep sense of grief or sorrow resulting from the death of someone or the loss of something important. Example: "The community felt a profound loss after the passing of their beloved mayor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What a profound loss.

The New York Times

And it's a profound loss.

The New York Times

This is a profound loss.

The New York Times

Alan's death is a profound loss".

The New York Times

"But he came to the project with a profound loss".

The New York Times

Being laid off "is a profound loss," Dr. Molitor said.

The New York Times

His passing is a profound loss to all who were touched by his enthusiasm and generosity.

The New York Times

Her passing is a profound loss to all who have been touched by her.

The New York Times

His death is a profound loss to the many people who loved him.

The New York Times

This revival of optimism does of course follow a profound loss of confidence last year.

Independent

So why, then, have I still felt on some level that I've experienced a profound loss?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a profound loss", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being lost and why it is deeply significant. This adds emotional weight and clarity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a profound loss" to describe minor inconveniences or insignificant setbacks. This can dilute the phrase's impact and make your writing seem hyperbolic or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a profound loss" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the object or subject complement in a sentence, describing something that has been lost and emphasizing the depth and significance of that loss. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a profound loss" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey a significant sense of grief or deprivation. Predominantly appearing in News & Media and Scientific contexts, it emphasizes the depth and impact of a loss, according to Ludwig. When employing this phrase, consider the weight it carries and ensure it aligns with the gravity of the situation to avoid diluting its effect. Alternatives like "a significant bereavement" or "a deep sense of sorrow" can offer similar connotations with subtle variations. Understanding these nuances ensures accurate and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant bereavement

Replaces 'loss' with 'bereavement' to emphasize the state of grieving after a death, while 'significant' conveys the magnitude.

a deep sense of sorrow

Focuses on the emotional impact of the loss using 'sorrow' and emphasizing its depth.

an immense tragedy

Emphasizes the catastrophic nature of the loss by using 'tragedy' and describing it as 'immense'.

a heartbreaking event

Highlights the emotional pain associated with the loss, portraying it as 'heartbreaking'.

a devastating setback

Focuses on the negative impact and disruption caused by the loss, portraying it as 'devastating'.

a grievous blow

Uses a more formal tone to express a serious and impactful loss.

a considerable misfortune

Downplays the emotional aspect and focuses on the unfortunate nature of the event.

an acute deprivation

Focuses on the absence and lack resulting from the loss by using 'deprivation'.

a fundamental privation

Emphasizes the loss of something essential or basic.

a severe detriment

Highlights the damaging and harmful effects of the loss.

FAQs

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

You can use "a profound loss" to describe a significant and deeply felt sense of grief or deprivation. For example, "The community experienced "a profound loss" with the closure of the local hospital."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "a profound loss"?

Alternatives include "a significant bereavement", "a deep sense of sorrow", or "an immense tragedy", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a profound loss" in writing?

Use "a profound loss" when describing situations that involve deep emotional impact or significant deprivation, such as the death of a loved one, the loss of a vital community resource, or a major setback with far-reaching consequences.

Is "a profound loss" formal or informal language?

The phrase "a profound loss" is generally considered appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, though it is most often found in news reports and academic writing. Its suitability depends more on the seriousness of the subject matter than the audience.