such a blow

USAGE SUMMARY

"such a blow" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to an event, situation, decision, or other occurrence that was particularly unpleasant, disappointing, heartbreaking, or shocking. For example, "I was devastated when my best friend moved away - it was such a blow!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General Interest

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Such a blow would not be fatal.

The New York Times

For the Cotters, this is such a blow.

The New York Times - Sports

No firm has ever survived such a blow.

The New York Times

And that is why his withdrawal was such a blow.

The Guardian - Sport

When AimHigher funding was withdrawn, it was such a blow.

The Guardian

Even Zamenhof's hopes might not have survived such a blow.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Such a blow might have boosted Aznar's party at the polls.

The New Yorker

"This was such a blow," he said of the governor's action.

The New York Times

That is why the ban on Farrakhan coming to Britain has been such a blow.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Even Confederate generals acknowledged that such a blow would have destroyed the Southern army and probably ended the war.

The New York Times - Arts

What are the dismal consequences of such a blow to the innocent man?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms or related phrases to add variety to your writing and avoid repetition, especially when discussing similar events or situations within the same piece.

Common error

Avoid using "such a blow" for minor inconveniences or trivial setbacks. This phrase implies a significant negative impact, so reserve it for situations that genuinely warrant such a strong description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "such a blow" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or an object of a preposition, denoting a significantly negative event or disappointment. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Sports

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "such a blow" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a significantly negative event or setback. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is perfectly acceptable in written English and is frequently used in news, sports, and formal business contexts. When using "such a blow", ensure that the impact is genuinely significant and consider alternative phrases like "a significant setback" or "a major disappointment" for variety. While authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ this phrase, be mindful of overstating its impact and reserve it for genuinely serious situations. Overall, this phrase effectively communicates disappointment and setback in various communicative purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant setback

Emphasizes the hindering aspect of the event, focusing on progress being delayed.

a severe setback

Indicates a serious hindrance to progress or plans.

a major disappointment

Highlights the feeling of unmet expectations and disillusionment.

a bitter disappointment

Emphasizes the negative emotional impact of not achieving a desired outcome.

a crushing defeat

Suggests a complete and demoralizing loss.

a painful setback

Highlights the emotional distress caused by the obstacle.

a devastating impact

Focuses on the overwhelmingly negative effects of the event.

a grave misfortune

Implies a deeply unfortunate and serious event.

a real tragedy

Conveys a sense of deep sorrow and loss.

a tough break

Suggests an unfortunate turn of events, often implying unfairness.

FAQs

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

"Such a blow" is used to describe a significantly negative event or setback. For instance, "The company's failure to secure the contract was "such a blow" to their expansion plans."

What are some alternatives to "such a blow"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use alternatives like "a significant setback", "a major disappointment", or "a crushing defeat" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "such a blow" in formal writing?

Yes, "such a blow" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in news reporting or analytical pieces, where you need to convey the serious negative impact of an event or decision. However, consider "a significant setback" if a more neutral tone is desired.

What's the difference between "such a blow" and "a minor setback"?

"Such a blow" implies a substantial negative impact or disappointment, while "a minor setback" refers to a small, temporary obstacle. The former is used for significant events, whereas the latter is for less consequential issues.