deep blow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deep blow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant emotional impact or a strong physical hit, depending on the context. Example: "The news of her departure was a deep blow to the entire team, leaving everyone in shock."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

But politically, failing to pass CAFTA would be a deep blow to the Bush administration.

The Economist

But a high-profile failure would deliver a deep blow to already disheartened forces.

The Washington Post

But the decision is a deep blow at a difficult time for the prime minister.

The New York Times

The loss of two Orion P-3C aircraft, valued at $36m£22.3m3m) each, is a deep blow to Pakistan's military.

The Guardian

The clearing of Zuccotti Park struck a deep blow to the Occupy Wall Street movement, which had used the site as its physical and spiritual heart.

The New York Times

For the architects of the zone, led by Germany and France, it would mark a deep blow to their dreams of ever-closer European integration.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Deep bass blows to the keyboard, sometimes chordal, leave trails of overtones behind and then give way to racing chromatic scales and rapid figures.

The New York Times - Arts

He sustained deep blows, losing both his wife and firstborn child, my sister Fiona, within two years of each other.

The Guardian - Opinion

The blast, which struck at 12 18 P.M. Friday in a public parking area on the second of six basement levels under the trade center, killed five people and injured 1,042 others, as it carved a crater several stories deep, blew down walls and ignited fires that sent smoke billowing up through the trade center.

The New York Times

It then punched a hole 30 kilometres deep, blowing a plume of dust and gas into the sky.

Vice

"They realize it's all character-driven and they become a character as well," said Turkington. "We're trying to produce the 'Decker' episodes as if the 'On Cinema' guys are really making them, and that the audience is willing to play along so deep blows me away.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when using "deep blow". It's suitable for situations involving significant disappointment, loss, or setback.

Common error

Avoid using "deep blow" in very casual conversations or lighthearted contexts. Opt for less dramatic language to maintain an appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deep blow" functions as a noun phrase, where "deep" modifies the noun "blow". It describes the intensity or severity of a negative impact, setback, or disappointment. Ludwig AI examples showcase its usage in diverse contexts like politics, economics, and personal experiences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

7%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Opinion

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "deep blow" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a significant negative impact, event, or disappointment. Ludwig AI analysis shows it's frequently used in news and media, and can be suitable for formal contexts. Consider alternatives like "significant setback" or "profound impact" to adjust the nuance. Avoid using "deep blow" in overly casual situations. Ludwig's examples effectively demonstrate its usage in various contexts, from economic downturns to personal losses, emphasizing the weight and severity of the event.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

devastating impact

Amplifies the negative consequences.

major setback

Emphasizes the hindrance caused by the negative event.

serious setback

Emphasizes the gravity of the negative event.

crushing defeat

Highlights the sense of failure and loss.

significant setback

Replaces "blow" with a synonym suggesting an obstacle to progress.

severe shock

Focuses on the unexpected and jarring nature of the event.

profound impact

Shifts from a forceful image to a more measured description of effect.

serious consequence

Shifts the focus to the results of an action or event.

major disappointment

Downplays the severity, focusing on the emotional result.

heavy burden

Focuses on the lasting weight of the negative event.

FAQs

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

You can use "deep blow" to describe a significantly negative event or setback, as in, "The company's financial losses were a "deep blow" to its investors."

What are some alternatives to saying "deep blow"?

Alternatives include "significant setback", "serious setback", or "profound impact", depending on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is "deep blow" an appropriate phrase for formal writing?

Yes, "deep blow" is generally suitable for formal writing, particularly when describing serious events or consequences. However, consider the specific audience and context to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.

What's the difference between "deep blow" and "major setback"?

"Deep blow" often implies a more emotional or profound negative impact, whereas "major setback" focuses more on the hindrance to progress or goals. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the emotional or practical consequences.