such a defeat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "such a defeat" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the severity or significance of a defeat in various contexts, such as sports, competitions, or personal challenges. Example: "The team faced such a defeat that it took them weeks to recover their confidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

"I did not expect such a defeat.

The New York Times

After such a defeat, Labour would be left reeling.

The New York Times

It was the first time the country had admitted such a defeat.

The New York Times

It is uncertain whether it can actually achieve such a defeat.

The New Yorker

The Union Navy would not suffer such a defeat again until Dec. 7, 1941.

The New York Times

Such a defeat probably would have made Mr. Dion prime minister without an election.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Yet the topsy-turvy logic of the current political situation in Germany is such that a defeat for Merkel's party could also be interpreted as a sign of support for her leadership.

The Guardian

In such a climate defeat becomes institutionalised.

The Guardian - Sport

How do you bounce back from such a humbling defeat?

The New York Times

Imagine being that gracious after such a painful defeat!

The Guardian - Sport

Why such a huge defeat for the socialists?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "such a defeat" to emphasize the surprising or unexpected nature of a loss. It's most effective when the defeat contrasts with prior expectations or performance.

Common error

Avoid using "such a defeat" for trivial losses. Reserve it for situations where the scale or consequences of the defeat are genuinely significant, preventing inflation of its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "such a defeat" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig examples show it characterizing the severity or significance of a loss, often in contexts of sports, politics, or conflict.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "such a defeat" is a phrase used to emphasize the significance and impact of a loss, often in contexts like sports, politics, or conflict. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and usable in written English. While phrases like "a crushing defeat" or "a resounding loss" offer similar meanings, "such a defeat" is particularly effective when the loss is surprising or unexpected. It’s important to reserve this phrase for genuinely significant setbacks to avoid diluting its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a crushing defeat

Emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the defeat.

a devastating rout

Emphasizes the completeness and destructiveness of the defeat.

a resounding loss

Highlights the decisiveness and clarity of the loss.

a humiliating loss

Focuses on the shame and disgrace associated with the loss.

a significant loss

Emphasizes the importance and impact of the defeat.

a humiliating setback

Focuses on the embarrassing aspect of the defeat.

an utter failure

Stresses the completeness of the failure.

a major failure

Shifts the focus to the lack of success.

a bitter disappointment

Highlights the negative emotional impact of the loss.

a painful reverse

Focuses on the adversity and suffering caused by the defeat.

FAQs

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

You can use "such a defeat" to emphasize the magnitude or impact of a loss. For instance, "The team suffered "such a defeat" that their morale was shattered".

What are some alternatives to "such a defeat"?

Alternatives include "a crushing defeat", "a resounding loss", or "a humiliating setback", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "such a defeat"?

Use "such a defeat" when highlighting a significant loss that has noteworthy consequences or implications. It's best suited for situations where the defeat is more than just a minor setback.

Is there a difference between "such a defeat" and "such a loss"?

While similar, "defeat" often implies a more decisive or comprehensive loss than "loss". "Such a defeat" suggests a complete failure in a contest or endeavor, whereas "such a loss" can refer to something more general.