a regrettable loss

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a regrettable loss" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express sorrow or disappointment over the loss of something or someone significant. Example: "The passing of our beloved leader is truly a regrettable loss for the entire community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Building community takes patience, time, and (sometimes) a regrettable loss of life.

The New Yorker

This spoliation of White House communication is a regrettable loss to history.

The Guardian - Opinion

Never a regrettable loss, the passage would be especially out of place here, since Mr. Jones has ensured that the country is already in shambles.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

In this case, the indefensible theft of legally made films has led to the regrettable loss of O2 customers' privacy.

The Guardian

Amongst reports of heroic profits and regrettable losses, it is now also customary to at least glance at performance in another area — diversity, or lack thereof, among executives and board members.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Look, it's a regrettable thing anytime there is the loss of innocent life," Mr. Bremer said in response to a question about civilian deaths.

The New York Times

That's a regrettable situation".

The New York Times

"This was a regrettable incident.

Independent

That's a regrettable motive.

The New York Times

The snowstorm was a regrettable incident.

The New York Times

It appears this was a regrettable error".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a regrettable loss", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being lost and why it is considered regrettable. This adds clarity and impact to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a regrettable loss" in casual conversations or informal writing. Its formality can sound out of place in relaxed settings; consider using simpler alternatives like "a shame" or "unfortunate".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a regrettable loss" functions as a noun phrase that describes a situation or event characterized by disappointment and sorrow. It serves to identify and label something as unfortunate, emphasizing its negative impact. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a regrettable loss" is a phrase used to express sorrow or disappointment over something lost. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts and carries a formal tone. While alternatives like "an unfortunate demise" or "a sad occasion" exist, the choice depends on the specific context and desired nuance. When using the phrase, ensure clarity about what is being lost and why it’s regrettable. Be cautious about overusing it in informal settings, where simpler alternatives might be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unfortunate demise

Replaces 'loss' with 'demise,' emphasizing the end of something, typically life or a venture, described as unfortunate.

a deplored passing

Replaces 'loss' with 'passing,' indicating the end of something, while 'deplored' emphasizes strong disapproval or regret.

a grievous misfortune

Uses stronger terms to convey a sense of serious bad luck or adversity.

a lamentable setback

Replaces both 'regrettable' and 'loss' with synonyms that suggest a disappointing hindrance or obstacle.

a deeply felt sorrow

Highlights the intense sadness and emotional impact of the loss.

a disappointing outcome

Focuses on the unsatisfactory result rather than the loss itself.

a painful deprivation

Emphasizes the emotional distress caused by the loss.

an unwelcome absence

Focuses on the missing entity and the negative feeling associated with its absence.

a sad occasion

Shifts from focusing on the loss to highlighting the overall feeling of sadness associated with an event.

a disheartening event

Focuses on the event causing discouragement or loss of enthusiasm, rather than the loss itself.

FAQs

What does "a regrettable loss" mean?

It signifies that the loss of something or someone is causing sorrow or disappointment, and that it is considered unfortunate or undesirable.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a regrettable loss"?

It's appropriate in formal or serious contexts, such as news reports, obituaries, or professional communications, where expressing sorrow for a significant loss is necessary. You can use alternatives like "an unfortunate demise" depending on the context.

What are some alternatives to "a regrettable loss"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a sad occasion", "an unfortunate demise", or "a lamentable setback". The best choice will depend on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "a regrettable loss" formal or informal?

It leans towards the formal side. In more casual settings, using phrases like "that's a shame" or "it's unfortunate" might be more appropriate.