lost for words

USAGE SUMMARY

"lost for words" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is generally used to describe when someone is at a loss for what to say, usually due to being surprised or overwhelmed by something. For example, you could say, "John was lost for words when his wife announced she was pregnant with twins."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We're lost for words.

Independent

"We are lost for words.

The Economist

I was lost for words.

Independent

Otherwise lost for words".

The Guardian - Music

"I'm lost for words," he said.

Independent

Scott was lost for words.

The Guardian - Sport

She is lost for words.

The Guardian

"I'm so lost for words right now.

Independent

He was completely lost for words".

The Guardian - Books

I was lost for words," he says.

The Guardian

Oddly, Fahmida Riaz is lost for words.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lost for words" to express genuine surprise, shock, or overwhelming emotion when someone is temporarily unable to articulate their thoughts. It adds a touch of authenticity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "lost for words" too frequently, as it can become cliché. Instead, vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "speechless" or "dumbfounded" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lost for words" primarily functions as an adjective phrase describing a temporary state of speechlessness. This is often due to an overwhelming emotion, surprise, or shock, as supported by examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lost for words" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a state of speechlessness, typically due to surprise, shock, or being overwhelmed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a widely accepted phrase in English. Its frequency and presence in authoritative sources like The Guardian, BBC, and The New York Times underscores its common usage across various contexts, predominantly in News & Media. While synonyms such as "speechless" and "at a loss for words" offer alternative expressions, "lost for words" remains a direct and effective way to convey a temporary inability to articulate thoughts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a loss for words

A more formal and complete synonym, emphasizing the inability to find the right words.

speechless

This single word directly describes the state of being without speech, often due to strong emotion.

wordless

A simple and direct synonym, indicating the absence of spoken words.

flabbergasted

Implies extreme surprise and bewilderment, leading to a loss of words.

dumbfounded

Highlights the astonishment and confusion that leads to speechlessness.

unable to speak

A literal description of the inability to articulate thoughts.

taken aback

Focuses on the surprise aspect that makes someone unable to speak.

without a word

Emphasizes the lack of verbal response in a particular situation.

gaping

Suggests a stunned silence, often with an open mouth.

mum's the word

While it technically means 'keep silent', it can be used when someone is so surprised they don't say a word.

FAQs

How can I use "lost for words" in a sentence?

You can use "lost for words" to describe someone's reaction to a surprising or shocking event. For example, "She was "lost for words" when she won the lottery".

What does it mean to be "lost for words"?

Being "lost for words" means that you are so surprised, shocked, or overwhelmed that you are temporarily unable to think of anything to say.

What are some alternative phrases for "lost for words"?

Some alternatives include "speechless", "at a loss for words", or "dumbfounded".

Is it grammatically correct to say "lost for words"?

Yes, it is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in English. It is often used in both spoken and written language.