has lost its edge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has lost its edge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has become less effective, exciting, or competitive over time. Example: "The once-popular restaurant has lost its edge, as fewer customers are coming in each week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Elmicker on whether surfing has lost its edge: "It's been the most middle class and cliche of sports in both the states and the UK for decades.

The Guardian

Not too long ago, Bing Maps was pretty competitive with Google Maps, but it feels like it has lost its edge a bit lately.

TechCrunch

Tim Anderson, the Register writer, notes that Microsoft has lost its edge when it comes to industrial design and even in during its recent MIX conference, where it was supposed to be all about design and sex, they dropped more science than art.

TechCrunch

It has lost its edge in design: many of its handsets look staid and dated.

The Economist

It's a fine old word and I for one would be loath to suggest that it has lost its edge entirely.

The New York Times

But analysts say that in recent years, with General Motors's emphasis on volume rather than individuality, it has lost its edge.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

So, too, does DirecTV seem to have lost its edge as it has waited around to be acquired.

The New York Times

It seemed Nintendo had lost its edge.

TechCrunch

Turkish anger with Israel may not have run its course, but it does seem to have lost its edge.

The New York Times

Even Nordstrom seems to have lost its edge.

The New York Times

The kitchen seems to have lost its edge.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "has lost its edge", ensure the subject was previously known for possessing that 'edge'. The phrase implies a comparison to a past state.

Common error

Avoid using "has lost its edge" when describing something that never possessed a distinctive advantage or competitive quality. The phrase is about a decline, not an inherent lack of capability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has lost its edge" functions as a descriptive idiom, indicating a decline in effectiveness, competitiveness, or distinctiveness. Ludwig AI examples illustrate its use across various contexts, from products and companies to political movements and personal skills.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Wiki

7%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "has lost its edge" is a common and grammatically correct idiom used to describe a decline in effectiveness, competitiveness, or distinctiveness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used in news and media, as well as in more informal contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure that the subject previously possessed the 'edge' in question. Alternatives such as "has become ineffective" or "has declined in influence" can provide nuanced variations, while avoiding the mistake of using the phrase in situations where the subject never had a distinct advantage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has become ineffective

Focuses on the lack of effectiveness rather than a loss of a competitive advantage.

has declined in influence

Emphasizes a reduction in persuasive power or sway.

has faded in prominence

Highlights a decrease in visibility or importance.

is not as sharp as it used to be

Implies a decline in precision, skill, or intelligence.

no longer has the same impact

Emphasizes the diminished effect or influence.

has waned in popularity

Refers to a decrease in public favor or acceptance.

is past its prime

Suggests the subject has reached its peak and is now in decline.

is not as competitive anymore

Directly addresses a decline in the ability to compete effectively.

has become outdated

Focuses on the subject being no longer current or relevant.

has lost its appeal

Highlights a reduction in attractiveness or desirability.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "has lost its edge"?

You can use alternatives like "has become ineffective", "has declined in influence", or "is not as sharp as it used to be" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "has lost its edge" in formal writing?

Yes, "has lost its edge" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in business or news contexts, where it's used to describe a decline in competitiveness or effectiveness. The level of formality depends more on the surrounding language than the phrase itself.

What does it mean when someone says a product "has lost its edge"?

When someone says a product "has lost its edge", it typically means that the product is no longer as innovative, competitive, or appealing as it once was. It suggests that the product's unique selling points have diminished, or that competitors have caught up or surpassed it.

Can "has lost its edge" be used to describe a person's skills?

Yes, "has lost its edge" can describe a person's skills, implying that their abilities are not as sharp or effective as they once were. This could be due to lack of practice, changing circumstances, or the emergence of new techniques or competitors.