lost signal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lost signal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where a communication signal, such as for a phone or internet connection, is no longer being received. Example: "During the storm, we experienced a lost signal, making it impossible to make calls or access the internet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Why don't you turn back?" The phones lost signal and the call was dropped.

The New Yorker

In situations where the pursuit unit lost signal from either of the receivers the PID algorithm was no longer called.

Cornell University

After intra-articular administration in rats, the visualized gel gradually lost signal intensity over the course of 4 weeks.

Biomaterials

If you have been stuck in traffic, and calling indiscriminately, you can fake a lost signal the moment you reach your destination.

The New York Times

The mobile phone company apologised after people in areas including London, Manchester, Glasgow and parts of Northern Ireland lost signal and were unable to make or receive calls.

The Guardian - Business

Ice accused him of trying to escape after his GPS ankle bracelet was damaged working on a construction site and briefly lost signal, even though he reported the incident straight away.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

By means of an estimator for lost signals, an integral-like sliding function is constructed.

Journal of the Franklin Institute

One pair of the leads installed in one test bench lost signals of T3 and T4 after heavy quench training.

Proceedings of the Twentieth International Cryogenic Engineering Conference (ICEC20)

"For whatever reason, we lost signals again, and while we still had the generators online, there was not enough power, so we lost most of the morning rush, with the station so dark," said Mr. Fleuranges, the transit spokesman.

The New York Times

But the hassle of lost signals and the high cost were considered worth the benefit of mobility.

Forbes

The days of roaming charges and the fear of lost signals could become relics of the past.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing technical issues, ensure the context clarifies what type of "signal" is being discussed (e.g., cell signal, GPS signal, data signal) for better understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "lost signal" interchangeably with terms like "weak signal" or "intermittent signal". "Lost signal" implies a complete absence of signal, while the others suggest a degraded or unstable connection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lost signal" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the state of no longer receiving a communication signal. Ludwig AI shows that the phrase describes a state or condition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lost signal" is a grammatically sound and commonly used term to describe the absence of a communication signal. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, most frequently in News & Media and Science. While it's generally neutral in tone, it can be used in both formal and informal settings. When using this phrase, ensure you clarify the specific type of signal (e.g., cell, GPS) for better comprehension. Remember to avoid using it when describing a weak or unstable signal, as it specifically denotes a complete absence of signal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

no signal

A more direct and simple way to express the absence of a signal.

dropped signal

Emphasizes the sudden loss of a signal during transmission.

signal disconnection

More technical term referring directly to the cessation of signal.

signal failure

Focuses on the malfunction or breakdown of the signal.

faded signal

Indicates a gradual weakening and eventual disappearance of the signal.

interrupted signal

Highlights the temporary or abrupt cessation of a signal.

signal absence

Focuses on the state of lacking a signal.

disrupted transmission

Refers to the interruption in the sending of a signal.

communication breakdown

Broadly refers to the failure of communication, which can include signal loss.

unreachable

Focuses on the inability to establish or maintain contact due to signal issues.

FAQs

How can I use "lost signal" in a sentence?

You can use "lost signal" to describe situations where a device or system can no longer receive or transmit a signal. For example, "The phone "lost signal" in the tunnel".

What's the difference between ""lost signal"" and "weak signal"?

"Lost signal" means there is no signal at all, while "weak signal" indicates a signal is present but has poor strength or quality.

What are some common causes of ""lost signal""?

Common causes include physical obstructions, distance from the source, interference from other devices, or malfunctioning equipment.

What can I say instead of ""lost signal""?

Alternatives include "no signal", "signal failure", or "dropped signal", depending on the specific context.