at a loss
Idioms-
Below cost, as in The store was doing so badly that it was selling merchandise at a loss .
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Puzzled, perplexed, in a state of uncertainty, as in When his letters were returned unopened, John was at a loss as to what to do next . This usage was originally applied to hounds who had lost the scent or track of their prey. [Mid-1600s]
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at a loss for words . Unable or uncertain as to what to say. For example, Father's tirade left us all at a loss for words . [Late 1600s]
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The digital media company said it has broadly operated at a loss since its conception and is burdened by legacy commitments.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026
The German heavy metal singer Doro Pesch said she was "at a loss for words", adding that it had been an honour to call Campbell her friend.
From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026
According to an exclusive report from one Chinese outlet, Blue Bottle is still operating at a loss.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026
And those who do stay often find the experience unfulfilling and frustrating, while their bosses are at a loss, wondering why the new workers just don’t get it.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026
For the first time since they had been upstairs, Maya seemed at a loss for words.
From "Far from the Tree" by Robin Benway
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
