deal a blow

phrase

formal

: to hit (someone or something) so as to cause harm

He dealt his enemy a mighty blow.

—usually used figuratively

The factory closing will deal a serious/severe/devastating/crushing blow to the town's economy.

Her career as an ice skater was dealt a fatal blow when she broke her leg.

Examples of deal a blow in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some proponents have even suggested that one goal is to deal a blow against China. — Lyle Goldstein, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2026

Gulf states could review their overseas investments and future commitments to ease financial pressure caused by the Middle East conflict, a shift that would deal a blow to many African countries. — semafor.com, 6 Mar. 2026

That ruling could deal a blow to Fuller and Pinilla’s side, either by eliminating important witnesses if the case were to go to trial or by handing the city additional leverage in settlement discussions. — Tess Riski march 3, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2026

Now, the 50-year-old Aguirre worries that the bloodshed will deal a blow to her livelihood and change towns like hers. — ABC News, 24 Feb. 2026

Rhymes for deal a blow

• afterglow
• akimbo
• albino
• aliquot
• allegro
• amigo
• apropos
• audio
• bungalow
• calico
• calypso
• cameo