lost to him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lost to him" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is beyond someone's understanding or awareness, often in a context of confusion or lack of knowledge. Example: "The complexities of the new software were completely lost to him, leaving him frustrated during the training session."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

His older daughter had long ago been lost to him.

The New Yorker

It's not just that I lost to him.

The Guardian - Sport

He'd lost to him 13 times in a row.

The Guardian - Sport

"I lost to him in the semi-finals," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

I have lost to him here three times.

The Guardian - Sport

Of course, he would say that, having just lost to him.

The New York Times - Sports

Swede, humiliated in his initial desperate search, eventually finds her but she is lost to him.

The Economist

When I lost to him here the first time, it was my first Slam final.

The New York Times

You lost to him in the race for prime minister last year.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I lost to him once at the World Tour Finals in 2014.

The Guardian - Sport

Two other men who have lost to him once are yearning to get another shot.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lost to him" to convey not only defeat in a competition, but also a sense of emotional or intellectual disconnect. This can add depth to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "lost to him" when simply stating someone doesn't know something. It implies a previous connection or understanding that has been severed, not just a lack of knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lost to him" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase. It typically modifies a verb, indicating a state of being no longer possessed, understood, or accessible by the person referred to as "him". Ludwig AI shows this in various contexts, such as losing a competition or experiencing a loss of understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lost to him" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to describe a state of dispossession, defeat, or incomprehension. Its frequent appearance in news sources and various other contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, highlights its relevance in both formal and informal settings. While grammatically straightforward, understanding its connotations—ranging from athletic defeat to emotional distance—is crucial for effective use. Consider alternatives like "defeated by him" or "beyond his understanding" to refine the meaning further. Avoid using it when simple lack of knowledge is the core idea. Being aware of all these aspects assures correct and impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defeated by him

Focuses specifically on the act of being overcome or beaten in a competition or conflict.

beaten by him

Similar to 'defeated', but can also imply a physical loss or overcoming.

overcome by him

Highlights the act of being overwhelmed or subdued, often in a figurative sense.

beyond his understanding

Shifts the focus to comprehension, suggesting that something is too complex for someone to grasp.

incomprehensible to him

Directly states that something cannot be understood by the person in question.

he couldn't grasp

Indicates a failure to fully understand something.

estranged from him

Indicates a state of alienation or distance in a relationship.

separated from him

Emphasizes a physical or emotional divide between individuals.

outmatched by him

Implies a significant difference in ability or resources, leading to defeat.

surpassed by him

Focuses on the other person's higher level of achievement or skill.

FAQs

How can "lost to him" be used in a sentence?

The phrase "lost to him" indicates something is no longer accessible, understood, or possessed by a person. For example, "The meaning of the ancient text was "lost to him" after years of neglect" or "The championship was "lost to him" in the final seconds of the game."

What does "lost to him" mean?

The phrase "lost to him" can mean several things depending on the context, it can mean he has been defeated by someone in a game or contest. It can also mean that he no longer comprehends something. Or that he has been separated from someone.

What's the difference between "defeated by him" and "lost to him"?

While both phrases describe a loss, "defeated by him" specifically refers to a loss in a competition or battle. "Lost to him" can have a broader meaning, including emotional or intellectual loss, as well as defeat.

Is it correct to say "something is lost on him" instead of "lost to him"?

Yes, "something is "lost on him"" is a correct alternative, although it primarily refers to a lack of understanding or appreciation. "Lost to him" can encompass a wider range of meanings, including physical separation or defeat.