lose with dignity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lose with dignity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one wants to express the idea of accepting defeat gracefully and maintaining self-respect. Example: "Even though she didn't win the competition, she managed to lose with dignity, congratulating the winner sincerely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Lynch insists that his players win and lose with dignity.

The New York Times - Sports

"My dad always taught me: you win with class, and you lose with dignity," Tarkanian said.

The New York Times - Sports

The foundation's motto, she said, is "Win with grace, lose with dignity".

The New York Times

Part of the experience of high school sports is learning how to lose with dignity.

The New York Times - Sports

QUESTION FROM FLYERS FAN: In Philly, we don't win with grace, and we don't lose with dignity!

The New Yorker

Benjamin Massey, Editor, Eighty Six Forever, Vancouver: The Vancouver Whitecaps at least managed to lose with dignity last week in Dallas.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

"We lost with dignity, and we are not looking for excuses to devalue Argentina's victory".

The New York Times - Sports

"We lost with dignity, and in the last couple of minutes of full time we had a fantastic chance, a great bit of movement, a ball into Kenny who swivelled brilliantly and I thought that was going to be it and we were going to win the cup with two minutes to go.

The Guardian - Sport

"We lost with dignity".

BBC

South Africa coach Gordon Igesund: "My boys lost with dignity, pride and passion.

BBC

Most importantly, they won and lost with dignity.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lose with dignity" to emphasize the importance of maintaining self-respect and appropriate behavior even when facing defeat. It's particularly relevant in contexts like sports, competitions, or professional settings where graciousness is valued.

Common error

Avoid using "lose with dignity" as a justification for complacency or lack of effort. It should represent acceptance and grace, not a passive resignation to defeat. Ensure your actions reflect genuine respect rather than a dismissive attitude.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lose with dignity" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe the manner in which someone handles defeat. It signifies accepting loss gracefully and maintaining self-respect. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable status.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

21%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lose with dignity" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that emphasizes the importance of graceful acceptance and self-respect in defeat. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Wiki, and Science. While maintaining a neutral tone, the phrase focuses on upholding character and integrity. Remember to use "lose with dignity" to promote good sportsmanship and avoid confusing it with complacency. Related phrases, such as "accept defeat gracefully" and "handle defeat with grace", offer alternative ways to express similar sentiments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accept defeat gracefully

Focuses on the manner of acceptance rather than explicitly mentioning dignity.

handle defeat with grace

Emphasizes gracefulness as a key attribute in managing loss.

take a loss with composure

Highlights the importance of maintaining emotional control when losing.

show sportsmanship in defeat

Specifically emphasizes the aspect of good sportsmanship during a loss, focusing on conduct.

bow out with honor

Implies a formal or ceremonial exit, emphasizing respect and integrity.

concede with respect

Highlights the act of conceding, emphasizing that it's done respectfully.

manage defeat maturely

Focuses on maturity as a key attribute.

remain gracious in defeat

Emphasizes maintaining a gracious attitude even after losing.

accept the outcome respectfully

Focuses on accepting the result with a respectful attitude.

suffer defeat with fortitude

Highlights courage and resilience in enduring a loss.

FAQs

How can I use "lose with dignity" in a sentence?

You can use "lose with dignity" to describe someone who handles defeat gracefully and respectfully. For example: "Even though she didn't win, she managed to "lose with dignity" by congratulating the winner sincerely."

What does it mean to "lose with dignity"?

To ""lose with dignity"" means to accept defeat gracefully, showing respect for your opponents and maintaining your self-respect and composure.

What are some alternative ways to say "lose with dignity"?

You can use alternatives such as "accept defeat gracefully", "handle defeat with grace", or "show sportsmanship in defeat".

Is it better to "lose with dignity" or "win at all costs"?

Losing with dignity is generally considered more ethical and respectable than "winning at all costs". Prioritizing dignity means upholding values like fairness, respect, and integrity, even in the face of defeat.