grievous blow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grievous blow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a serious or severe impact, either physically or metaphorically, often in contexts involving loss or hardship. Example: "The news of her sudden departure was a grievous blow to the entire team, leaving everyone in shock."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

This a grievous blow.

The New Yorker

Fate was duly tempted and delivered a grievous blow.

Independent

THE opposition in Zimbabwe suffered another grievous blow this week.

The Economist

True believers would lament a grievous blow to their European dream.

The Economist

And the electoral strategy of "cultural" resentment and fake populism has been dealt a grievous blow.

The New Yorker

Flaubert's sudden and unexpected death in 1880 was a grievous blow to Maupassant.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

In the United States, the airline system, financial markets and telecommunications networks all suffered grievous blows.

The New York Times

The Palestinian militias and police forces (they are by now much the same) have suffered grievous blows during the Israeli offensive: scores have been killed, hundreds arrested and arms, equipment and ordnance have been seized.

The Economist

The Palestinian militias and police forces (they are by now much the same) have suffered grievous blows during the Israeli offensive: scores have been killed, hundreds detained (more than 4,000, said Israel on April 11th) and arms, equipment and ordnance seized.

The Economist

The Palestinian militias and police forces (they are by now much the same) have suffered grievous blows during the Israeli offensive: scores have been killed, hundreds arrested and arms, equipment and ordnance seized.

The Economist

It was the closest South Africa came to race war, and a grievous personal blow.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "grievous blow" to describe situations where the impact is not only damaging but also causes deep sorrow or distress. It is most effective when conveying a sense of serious loss or setback.

Common error

Avoid using "grievous blow" to describe trivial inconveniences. The phrase is best reserved for events that have genuinely serious and far-reaching consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grievous blow" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "suffer a grievous blow", "deal a grievous blow"). According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English to describe a serious impact, either physically or metaphorically.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grievous blow" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a significantly damaging event that causes deep sorrow or distress. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. Predominantly found in news and media sources, this phrase is best reserved for situations with severe consequences rather than minor inconveniences. Related phrases include "serious setback" or "heavy blow". Remember to use it to convey a sense of serious loss, and avoid overuse in trivial situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious setback

Emphasizes the hindering aspect of the event, portraying it as a delay or reversal in progress.

heavy удар

Focuses on the impact being forceful and substantial, highlighting the magnitude of the hit or strike.

devastating setback

Highlights the severely damaging and upsetting nature of the event.

crushing disappointment

Focuses on the emotional impact of the event, emphasizing the deep sadness and disillusionment it causes.

major impediment

Stresses the obstructive quality of the event, indicating it significantly hinders progress or achievement.

significant setback

Highlights the importance and impact of the event as a reversal or obstacle.

critical failure

Focuses on the complete breakdown or inability to succeed due to the event.

major reversal

Emphasizes the change in direction or fortune brought about by the event.

severe detriment

Highlights the damaging and harmful effects of the event.

serious disadvantage

Underlines the unfair or unfavorable position created by the event.

FAQs

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

You can use "grievous blow" to describe a significant setback or damaging event. For example, "The sudden loss of funding was a grievous blow to the research project".

What are some alternatives to "grievous blow"?

Alternatives include "serious setback", "heavy blow", or "devastating setback", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "grievous blow" is appropriate for formal writing when describing a genuinely serious and impactful event. It conveys a sense of gravity and significant consequence.

What distinguishes "grievous blow" from a simple "setback"?

"Grievous blow" implies a more profound and emotionally impactful negative event than a simple "setback". It suggests deep sorrow or distress in addition to the hindrance.