severe blow

USAGE SUMMARY

'severe blow' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a sudden effect that is damaging or hurtful. For example, "The company suffered a severe blow when their biggest customer canceled their order."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Today's announcement is a severe blow to such hopes".

The New York Times - Sports

Even so, some banks' pride will take a severe blow.

The New York Times

Joan's sudden death was, however, a severe blow.

The Guardian

The charges are a severe blow to the city.

The New York Times

"Their leaving is a severe blow for the industry.

Independent

That would be a severe blow to the American landscape.

The New York Times

This is a severe blow to Europe's self-image.

The Economist

Although they hope to continue, she said, the terrorist attacks dealt a severe blow.

The New York Times

If the statements are suppressed, it will be a severe blow to the government's case.

The New York Times

And if it does, it could be a severe blow to science.

The New York Times

The second half of the last century dealt a severe blow to Vietnam's forest resources.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "severe blow" to describe a sudden, damaging event or setback, especially when emphasizing the negative impact on plans, hopes, or progress. Be mindful of the context and consider whether a more nuanced term like "major setback" or "crushing defeat" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "severe blow" for minor inconveniences or temporary setbacks. Reserve this phrase for truly significant negative events that have substantial and lasting consequences. Using it too often can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "severe blow" functions as a noun phrase typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes an event or action that has a significantly negative impact. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in describing damaging or hurtful events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "severe blow" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that describes a significantly negative event or setback. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English. As the examples demonstrate, it frequently appears in news and media contexts, as well as in encyclopedias and formal writing. When using this phrase, be mindful of overusing it for minor setbacks, as it is most effective when reserved for truly significant events. Alternative phrases like ""major setback"" or "crushing defeat" can provide more nuance depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major setback

This alternative suggests a hindrance or delay in progress, similar to a "severe blow" but often implies a temporary obstruction rather than a complete defeat.

significant setback

This alternative highlights the importance of the setback, akin to a "severe blow", indicating substantial negative consequences.

serious setback

This alternative focuses on the gravity of the setback, akin to a "severe blow", indicating significant negative consequences.

heavy setback

This alternative emphasizes the weight of the setback, akin to a "severe blow", indicating significant negative consequences.

major setback

This alternative suggests a significant hindrance or delay, akin to a "severe blow", indicating substantial negative consequences.

serious setback

This alternative focuses on the seriousness of the setback, akin to a "severe blow", indicating significant negative consequences.

devastating impact

This alternative focuses on the extent of the harm caused, implying widespread and lasting damage comparable to a "severe blow".

crippling blow

This alternative emphasizes the disabling effect, implying a long-term or permanent impairment resulting from the event, similar to the long-lasting consequences of a "severe blow".

crushing defeat

This alternative emphasizes the totality of the loss, implying a more decisive and demoralizing outcome than a "severe blow".

debilitating setback

This alternative underscores the weakening effect, suggesting a loss of strength or functionality as a result of the event, much like the weakening impact of a "severe blow".

FAQs

How can I use "severe blow" in a sentence?

You can use "severe blow" to describe something that causes significant damage or disappointment. For example, "The company's reputation suffered a "severe blow" after the scandal".

What's the difference between "severe blow" and "major setback"?

"Severe blow" suggests a more forceful and damaging impact, while "major setback" implies a significant but potentially recoverable delay or obstacle. A "severe blow" might have long-term consequences, while a "major setback" might be overcome with adjustments.

Which is correct, "severe blow to" or "severe blow for"?

"Severe blow to" is the more common and grammatically appropriate usage when referring to something that is negatively impacted. For instance, "a severe blow to the economy" is correct.

What can I say instead of "severe blow" to avoid repetition?

You can use alternatives like "crushing defeat", "devastating impact", or "significant setback depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.