such a big loss

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "such a big loss" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize how significant a loss or setback is. For example, "The team was devastated by their loss, it was such a big loss."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

But is it such a big loss?

The Guardian

The report of such a big loss might be expected to cheer WorldCom's competitors.

The New York Times

"Such a big loss of form is sad, sad for him and for us," Giles said of Finn.

The Guardian - Sport

Otherwise, it's almost impossible to make such a big loss," said one trader in London who did not want to be named because he did not want to be connected to the case.

The New York Times

It's easy to be critical, but the chaotic nature of Bulgarian football, and the troubling kidnap threats against Berbatov's family, make his decision to stay away readily understandable, and given his indifferent form – sulkiness as some would have it – for the national team, he is probably not such a big loss as he may at first seem.

The Guardian - Sport

"But as of today, the only place there is such a big loss is in the U.S". French exports to the United States are already suffering from a weak American economy and the dollar's diminished value against the euro, which makes French products more expensive for Americans.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

A large venue such as the Pleasance, which operates year-round, can ride out a big loss, such as one in 2014, and have a chance of clawing it back, as they did last year.

The Guardian

"It is his first injury at the club and he is a big loss because he is such a versatile player.

Independent

Her credit will go from $3,888 to zero -- a big loss of income for a couple of such modest earnings.

The New York Times

Not a big loss.

The New York Times

This is a big loss".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "such a big loss" to convey a significant sense of disappointment or detriment. It's most effective when highlighting the emotional or practical impact of something missing or someone being gone.

Common error

Avoid using "such a big loss" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language to maintain the reader's interest and prevent the phrase from losing its impact. Alternatives like "significant void" or "devastating blow" can offer similar emotional weight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "such a big loss" functions as an intensifier followed by a noun phrase, typically serving as a subjective evaluation of a negative event or situation. It expresses a strong feeling of disappointment, sorrow, or detriment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate in several contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sport

25%

Science

12.5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

12.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "such a big loss" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a significant sense of disappointment or detriment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for emphasizing the emotional or practical impact of an absence or a negative event. While frequently found in News & Media and Sport contexts, it’s important to avoid overuse and consider more formal alternatives like "significant setback" in academic or professional settings. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively use this phrase to convey strong emotions and engage your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a devastating blow

Highlights the impact of the loss as overwhelmingly negative and shocking.

a significant void

Highlights the emptiness or absence left by the loss.

a regrettable absence

Underlines the feeling of sorrow over someone or something no longer being present.

a considerable setback

Focuses on the hindering aspect rather than the emotional absence.

a painful privation

Focuses on the distressing nature of the loss and the suffering it causes.

a major disadvantage

Highlights the competitive impact of the loss.

a severe deprivation

Emphasizes the lack of something essential.

an irreparable damage

Focuses on the long lasting consequences and harm.

a grievous misfortune

Emphasizes the unfortunate and sorrowful aspect of the loss.

a substantial forfeiture

Emphasizes what has been surrendered or given up.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "such a big loss" in a sentence?

Use "such a big loss" to emphasize the significant negative impact resulting from a departure, absence, or defeat. For instance, "The closure of the local library is "such a big loss" for the community".

What are some alternative phrases to "such a big loss"?

You can use alternatives like "significant void", "considerable setback", or "devastating blow" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "such a big loss" appropriate for formal writing?

While "such a big loss" is understandable, more formal alternatives like "significant setback" or "considerable detriment" might be preferable in academic or professional contexts to maintain a more serious tone.

How does the connotation of "such a big loss" differ from "a slight inconvenience"?

"Such a big loss" implies a profound impact or absence that is deeply felt, while "a slight inconvenience" suggests a minor disruption that causes only mild irritation. The former signifies a major negative change, whereas the latter represents a trivial matter.