Losses: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is typically used in financial or business contexts to describe a situation where something valuable is no longer present, especially after a calculation or evaluation.

• The company reported significant losses for the fiscal year.
• The team suffered heavy losses during the campaign.

Commonly used in economic or financial settings to refer to the amount by which expenses exceed income or revenue. It often has a negative connotation.

• The government is facing a large budget deficit.
• The company needs to find ways to reduce its deficit.

Best suited for situations where there is a reduction or decline in quantity, size, or degree over time.

• There was a decrease in the number of visitors to the museum this year.
• The decrease in temperature was noticed by everyone.

Used to describe instances where an attempt to achieve a goal did not succeed. This word often carries a negative connotation.

• The project ended in failure due to poor planning.
• He was disappointed by his failure to pass the exam.

Used in a general sense to indicate something that has been lost, often in contexts like business, finance, or personal scenarios.

• The company reported significant losses this quarter.
• She felt deeply the loss of her mother.

Commonly used in competitive scenarios such as sports, politics, or battles to indicate unsuccessful outcomes. It carries a more formal or dramatic tone.

• The team suffered several defeats this season.
• His political career ended in defeat after the election.

Used to describe temporary or minor hindrances that interfere with progress. It implies that there is still a chance to overcome the issue.

• Despite the setbacks, the project is still on track.
• He faced several setbacks in his career but eventually succeeded.

Refers to not achieving a desired goal in various areas like projects, exams, or personal efforts. It has a more negative connotation.

• The experiment was a complete failure.
• She was disappointed by her failure to pass the exam.

Typically used in situations involving financial or quantitative deficits or when something valuable is taken away or destroyed.

• The company reported significant losses this quarter.
• He struggled to cope with the losses after the fire.

Commonly associated with deep emotional distress caused by death or profound loss. It usually implies a longer-term emotional process.

• She was overcome with grief after the death of her loved one.
• Grief can be a long journey towards healing.

Used to express feelings of sadness or regret, often less intense and less prolonged than grief. Can relate to situations or events causing sadness.

• He expressed deep sorrow over the end of their friendship.
• The book described her sorrow after moving to a new city.

Used to describe a series of bad luck or unfortunate events, often implying multiple negative occurrences.

• The family faced many misfortunes, including job losses and health issues.
• Her misfortunes began when she missed the last bus home.