something is lost

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something is lost" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that a particular quality, feeling, or item has been diminished or is no longer present. Example: "In the rush to modernize, it feels like something is lost from our traditional values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Something is lost.

The Guardian - Arts

I just think that something is lost.

The New York Times

Perhaps something is lost in translation.

The New York Times

Let me tell you: something is lost.

The New York Times

Still, perhaps something is lost if schools eliminate valedictorians.

The New Yorker

But, she admits, something is lost in the process.

The New York Times

"Something is lost — but perhaps something can be gained".

The New York Times - Arts

Do you think something is lost in that?

The Guardian

IMPORTANT: You should back up your work regularly to protect yourself in case something is lost.

Cornell University

During the process of converting analog audio to digital, something is lost.

The New York Times - Magazine

Something is lost without the face-to-face interaction but I still found it very useful.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "something is lost", ensure the context clearly indicates what is missing and the impact of its absence. It's important to convey the specific nature of the loss to provide a complete understanding for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "something is lost" without specifying what that "something" is. If the context doesn't make it clear, the statement becomes meaningless. Always provide enough detail for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something is lost" typically functions as a statement expressing that a particular quality, aspect, or item has been diminished or is no longer present. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

10%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "something is lost" is a common and versatile expression used to indicate a sense of reduction, absence, or negative change. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various reputable sources. It is most often found in news and media contexts, but also appears in academic and scientific writing. While generally neutral in register, its formality can vary based on the specific situation. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what "something" refers to and the impact of its absence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a piece is missing

This alternative suggests that only a component is missing instead of the whole. Usually it refers to tangible elements.

a key ingredient is missing

Focuses on the absence of a necessary element needed for something to be complete.

a sense of loss

This focuses on the emotional consequence of losing something, making it more personal.

something has vanished

Focuses on the sudden disappearance of something, suggesting a complete absence.

an element is absent

Highlights the non-existence of a particular element, focusing on composition.

a certain quality is lacking

Highlights the absence of a specific attribute or characteristic.

a decline is evident

This alternative highlights the process of reduction and is suitable in contexts describing trends or qualities.

a value diminished

This highlights the reduction in worth or importance of something.

there is a deficit

Emphasizes a lack or shortage, particularly in quantitative contexts.

part of it disappeared

It describes the disappearance of a part of a whole, without saying it's completely lost.

FAQs

How can I use "something is lost" in a sentence?

Use "something is lost" to express that a particular quality, feeling, or item has been diminished or is no longer present. For example: "In the rush to modernize, it feels like "something is lost" from our traditional values."

What can I say instead of "something is lost"?

You can use alternatives like "a piece is missing", "a sense of loss", or "a decline is evident" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "something is lost" or "something was lost"?

The choice between "something is lost" and "something was lost" depends on the timing of the loss. Use "something is lost" for a present or ongoing loss, and "something was lost" for a loss that occurred in the past and is now complete.

What's the difference between "something is lost" and "something is missing"?

"Something is lost" often implies a sense of irretrievability or a negative consequence, whereas "something is missing" simply indicates that something is not present, without necessarily implying loss or negativity.