at a loss

phrase

1

: uncertain as to how to proceed

was at a loss to explain the discrepancy

2

: unable to produce what is needed

at a loss for words

Examples of at a loss in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Maeda said that Rakuten Medical’s Japan branch is profitable, though the global entity operates at a loss due to high research spending. — Angelica Ang, Fortune, 26 Oct. 2026

This does not mean accepting every request or running your business at a loss to serve clients with financial needs. — Mark Berookim, Forbes.com, 26 Oct. 2026

Baitz’s verbal gymnastics aren’t a good fit for Harris, who is at his most eloquent when his characters are at a loss for words. — Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 19 Oct. 2026

Investors often wait until December to tax-loss harvest — or sell investments at a loss and use their losses to offset gains in other investments. — Cheryl Winokur Munk, CNBC, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1668, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for at a loss

• albatross
• applesauce
• barabbas
• helios
• kshatriyas
• menelaus
• across
• backcross
• crisscross
• lacrosse
• recross
• tomas