fatal blow

USAGE SUMMARY

"fatal blow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that has a devastating or destructive effect. For example, "The company's financial losses due to the global pandemic were the fatal blow to their operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Katrina didn't deliver a fatal blow.

The New Yorker

But the fatal blow had been inflicted.

The New Yorker

White's 50 Ra4! was a fatal blow.

The New York Times

The slave trade dealt a fatal blow.

The Guardian

Spain's dismissal was the fatal blow.

The Guardian - Sport

It was Weil who dealt the fatal blow.

The New York Times - Books

That would be a fatal blow to his presidential authority.

The Economist

"That was the first fatal blow," Mr. Derebey said.

The New York Times

A downgrade would deal a potentially fatal blow to A.I.G.

The New York Times

At least this time it wasn't a fatal blow.

The Guardian - Sport

For businesses that run on intellectual talent, it can be a fatal blow.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fatal blow", consider the impact on the reader. If the topic is sensitive or emotionally charged, choose alternative phrasings.

Common error

Avoid using "fatal blow" repeatedly in your writing. Variety enhances readability and prevents the phrase from losing its impact. Instead, consider using synonyms or rephrasing sentences to express the same idea in different ways.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fatal blow" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject complement in a sentence. It signifies a decisive action or event that leads to the end or failure of something. Ludwig confirms its grammatically correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fatal blow" is a commonly used noun phrase signifying a decisive action or event leading to the end or failure of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct usage across diverse contexts, predominantly in news and media, indicating a neutral register. The phrase serves to emphasize the finality and severity of an event. While "fatal blow" is widely accepted, writers should consider synonyms like "mortal wound" or "death knell" for nuanced expression and to avoid overuse, enhancing writing clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mortal wound

Refers more literally to a physical injury that causes death, but can be used metaphorically to describe a devastating event.

death knell

Implies the imminent end or failure of something.

coup de grâce

Suggests a final, decisive act that ends resistance or struggle.

crushing defeat

Emphasizes the magnitude and completeness of the loss.

knockout punch

Suggests a sudden and decisive victory, especially in a competitive context.

terminal setback

Highlights the irreversibility and finality of the negative event.

ultimate downfall

Focuses on the end of someone's or something's success or power.

decisive setback

Highlights the critical impact and negative consequences.

devastating setback

Emphasizes the emotional impact and damage caused.

crippling blow

Suggests severe damage or impairment, but not necessarily complete destruction.

FAQs

How can "fatal blow" be used in a sentence?

The phrase "fatal blow" typically signifies a decisive action or event that leads to the downfall or end of something. For example, "The economic downturn was the "fatal blow" to their business." Consider using alternatives depending on context.

What are some synonyms for "fatal blow"?

Alternatives to "fatal blow" include "mortal wound", "death knell", or "crushing defeat". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "fatal blow" in formal writing?

Yes, "fatal blow" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in news articles and analytical reports. However, be mindful of the tone and context, as it can be considered dramatic or emotive.

What's the difference between "fatal blow" and "crippling blow"?

"Fatal blow" implies a complete and irreversible end, whereas "crippling blow" suggests severe damage or impairment but not necessarily destruction. A crippling blow weakens, a fatal blow destroys.