Pronunciation: /æt ə lɔs/
noun a noun is a word that represents a person, place, thing, or idea. In this phrase, 'loss' is a noun referring to the state of not knowing what to do or how to proceed.
A1 I am at a loss for words when it comes to expressing my feelings.
A2 She was at a loss as to how to solve the math problem.
B1 The team was at a loss for ideas on how to improve sales.
B2 After hours of searching, they were still at a loss for the missing keys.
C1 The detective was at a loss as to how the crime could have been committed.
C2 Even with all his experience, the lawyer was at a loss in the complex case.
adjective an adjective is a word that describes or modifies a noun. In this phrase, 'loss' can also be considered an adjective describing the state of being unsure or confused.
A1 I am at a loss for words when it comes to expressing my feelings.
A2 She was at a loss as to how to solve the math problem.
B1 The new software was so complicated that I was at a loss on how to use it.
B2 After the unexpected turn of events, the team was left at a loss on how to proceed.
C1 The renowned author was at a loss for inspiration while working on his latest novel.
C2 Despite his years of experience, the detective found himself at a loss in solving the mysterious case.
preposition a preposition is a word that shows the relationship between a noun or pronoun and other words in a sentence. In this case, 'at' is a preposition indicating a state or condition.
A1 I am at a loss for words when I try to speak in a new language.
A2 She was at a loss as to how to solve the math problem.
B1 The tourist was at a loss for directions in the unfamiliar city.
B2 After the unexpected turn of events, the team was at a loss for what to do next.
C1 The experienced detective was rarely at a loss when it came to solving cases.
C2 Despite his years of training, the seasoned chef was occasionally at a loss for new recipe ideas.
formal The company was at a loss as to how to proceed after the unexpected resignation of their CEO.
informal I'm at a loss for what to get my mom for her birthday.
slang I'm totally at a loss when it comes to fixing cars.
figurative She felt at a loss in the vast city, not knowing anyone or where to go.
was at a loss
are at a loss
more at a loss
most at a loss
is at a loss
will be at a loss
has been at a loss
is being at a loss
is at a loss
at a loss
to be at a loss
being at a loss
having been at a loss