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Synonyms

at a loss for words

American  

idiom

  1. unable to think of anything to say due to being overcome with a strong emotion, especially surprise or confusion.

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.

"It was absolutely incredible. And I think everyone is sort of at a loss for words," she recalled.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

Westminster Vice Mayor Carlos Manzo, the lone Democrat on the dais and the sole vote against designating the street in Kirk’s honor, at times appeared at a loss for words over Nguyen’s proposal.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 14, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it "absolutely heartrending" and Kohli said he was "at a loss for words" after the tragedy.

From Barron's • Nov. 6, 2025

"We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away. We are at a loss for words right now," they wrote.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2025

Even Kevin Hennessey is at a loss for words.

From "The Misfits" by James Howe

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.