what a loss

USAGE SUMMARY

"what a loss" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to express regret or sadness after someone has died, or a thing no longer exists. For example, "The closing of the old library was such a tragedy - what a loss."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

When Jones hurt his shoulder playing for Manchester United against Hull, the usual hubbub started about what a loss he would be to Hodgson due to his versatility.

The Guardian - Sport

What a loss!

The New York Times

But oh, what a loss.

The New York Times

And what a loss.

The Guardian - Music

And what a loss that would be.

The New York Times

What a loss that would be.

The New York Times

What a loss to them.

The Guardian - Music

What a loss in the intellectual world!

Stanford University

And what a loss for them.

The Washington Post

Sweet Rik, much loved – what a loss".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

What a loss for that child.

Unicef

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “what a loss” to express a sense of sorrow, disappointment, or regret, particularly when something valuable or important has been lost or is no longer available. This phrase works well in both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using “what a loss” in situations that are positive or beneficial. The phrase is specifically meant to convey negative sentiment, and using it otherwise will confuse your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what a loss" functions as an exclamatory expression, used to convey a strong feeling of regret, disappointment, or sadness. Ludwig AI confirms it as a correct phrase. This is demonstrated in the examples, where it's used to lament the death of a person, the closure of a business, or the absence of something valuable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

19%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

11%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what a loss" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey feelings of regret, disappointment, or sadness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for a variety of contexts, though primarily found in News & Media, Academia and Formal & Business. When using it, ensure that the situation warrants a negative sentiment. Alternatives such as "such a shame" or "it's regrettable" can provide similar expressions, while avoiding misuse in positive contexts is crucial. The phrase's prevalence in authoritative sources such as The Guardian and The New York Times underscores its widespread acceptance and understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

such a shame

Focuses on the unfortunate nature of the situation or event.

it's regrettable

Highlights the feeling of regret associated with the loss.

a great pity

Emphasizes the feeling of sorrow over the loss or absence.

it's unfortunate

Acknowledges the negative aspect of the loss or event.

a crying shame

Emphasizes the outrageousness and unfairness of the loss.

how disappointing

Focuses on the feeling of disappointment caused by the loss.

a matter for regret

Formal way of expressing that something is regrettable.

it's a blow

Indicates that the loss is a setback or a disappointment.

a sad thing

Simple and direct expression of sadness over the loss.

deplorable situation

Emphasizes the regrettable nature of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "what a loss" in a sentence?

Use "what a loss" to express sadness or disappointment about something that is no longer available or has been lost. For example, "The closing of the local bookstore is "what a loss" for the community".

What can I say instead of "what a loss"?

You can use alternatives like "such a shame", "it's regrettable", or "a great pity" depending on the context.

Is "what a loss" formal or informal?

"What a loss" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it tends to be more common in everyday conversation and writing. In very formal situations, you might prefer a more subdued expression of regret.

What is the difference between "what a loss" and "what a shame"?

While both phrases express disappointment, "what a loss" often implies a greater sense of something valuable being gone, whereas "what a shame" may simply express regret about an unfortunate situation. The phrase "what a loss" is more specific to a tangible or intangible loss.