Top 60 Slang For Loss – Meaning & Usage

Experiencing a loss can be tough, but knowing the right slang to express those feelings can make it a bit easier. Join us as we uncover the top slang terms used to describe loss in today’s language landscape. Whether you’re looking to expand your vocabulary or simply stay in the loop, this list is sure to resonate with you and offer a fresh perspective on navigating moments of defeat.

Click above to generate some slangs

1. L

In slang, “L” is short for “loss” and is used to describe a situation where someone or something has experienced a defeat or failure.

For example, if a sports team loses a game, someone might say, “They took a big L last night.”
In a video game, if a player gets defeated, they might say, “I just took an L in that round.”
When someone fails a test, they might say, “I really took an L on that exam.”

2. Ls

Similar to “L,” “Ls” is a plural form of the slang term used to describe multiple losses or a series of defeats.

For instance, if a person loses multiple games in a row, they might say, “I’ve been taking Ls all day.”
In a discussion about someone’s unfortunate events, a person might comment, “Sounds like they’ve been catching Ls left and right.”
If a team consistently loses matches, a fan might say, “They’ve been racking up the Ls this season.”

3. Taking an L

This phrase is used to describe the act of experiencing a loss or defeat in a particular situation.

For example, if someone fails to achieve a goal, they might say, “I’m taking an L on this project.”
In a competitive activity, if someone gets beaten by their opponent, they might say, “I took a big L in that match.”
When someone realizes they made a mistake, they might admit, “Yeah, I’m definitely taking an L on that decision.”

4. Wipeout

In slang, “wipeout” refers to a complete loss or failure in a particular situation.

For instance, if a team loses a game by a significant margin, someone might say, “That was a total wipeout.”
In a discussion about a failed business venture, a person might comment, “They experienced a wipeout with that investment.”
If someone fails a test or exam with a very low score, they might say, “I had a complete wipeout on that exam.”

5. Downturn

While not exclusive to slang, “downturn” is sometimes used to describe a significant decline or negative change in a situation, often resulting in a loss.

For example, if a company experiences a decrease in profits, someone might say, “They’re going through a downturn.”
In a discussion about the economy, a person might comment, “The recent downturn has affected many businesses.”
If someone’s luck takes a turn for the worse, they might say, “I’ve been experiencing a bit of a downturn lately.”

6. Hit

This term refers to a loss or failure in a specific endeavor or situation. It can also be used to describe a disappointment or setback.

For example, someone might say, “That presentation was a hit. I really nailed it!”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “The team took a hit with that last-minute goal.”
A person discussing a failed business venture might say, “The company took a hit and had to close its doors.”

7. Flop

This word is slang for a complete failure or disappointment. It is often used to describe a movie, album, or performance that did not meet expectations.

For instance, a film critic might say, “The movie was a flop at the box office.”
In a discussion about music, someone might say, “The band’s latest album was a flop, unfortunately.”
A person discussing a failed project might remark, “Despite our efforts, the event was a flop.”

8. Bust

This term refers to a failure or disappointment, often in a business or financial context. It can also be used to describe a person who has not achieved their goals or lived up to expectations.

For example, someone might say, “The company’s latest product was a bust, and sales were dismal.”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “The quarterback was a bust and didn’t live up to his potential.”
A person discussing a failed investment might say, “I thought it would be a sure thing, but it turned out to be a bust.”

9. Setback

This word refers to an unexpected obstacle or delay that hinders progress or success. It can also be used to describe a temporary defeat or setback.

For instance, someone might say, “The project experienced a setback when key team members fell ill.”
In a personal context, a person might say, “I faced a setback in my career when I didn’t get the promotion I was hoping for.”
A student discussing their academic journey might say, “I had a setback when I failed a crucial exam, but I bounced back and studied harder.”

10. Defeat

This term refers to a loss or being overcome by an opponent or obstacle. It can also be used to describe the act of overcoming a challenge or triumphing over adversity.

For example, someone might say, “The team suffered a defeat in the championship game.”
In a personal context, a person might say, “I refuse to let this defeat define me; I will bounce back.”
A motivational speaker might say, “Every defeat is an opportunity to learn and grow.”

11. Downfall

Refers to a sudden and significant loss or failure. It can be used to describe the downfall of an individual, organization, or even a plan.

For example, “The downfall of the company was due to poor financial management.”
In a sports context, one might say, “The team experienced a downfall after their star player got injured.”
Another usage could be, “The downfall of the political party was caused by a series of scandals.”

12. Decline

Refers to a gradual or continuous loss or decrease in value, quality, or performance. It can be used to describe a decline in various aspects of life, such as health, economy, or popularity.

For instance, “The decline in sales was attributed to increased competition.”
In a personal context, one might say, “I’ve noticed a decline in my energy levels as I get older.”
Another usage could be, “The decline in public support led to the politician’s resignation.”

13. Misstep

Refers to a small or minor mistake or error that leads to a loss or setback. It can be used to describe a misjudgment or a wrong move in various situations.

14. Fiasco

Refers to a chaotic or disastrous event that ends in failure. It is often used to describe a situation that goes completely wrong or becomes a total mess.

For instance, “The party turned into a fiasco when the entertainment didn’t show up.”
In a business context, one might say, “The product launch was a fiasco due to numerous technical issues.”
Another usage could be, “The family vacation turned into a fiasco when their car broke down.”

15. Debacle

Refers to a complete and utter failure or defeat. It is often used to describe a situation that ends in a disastrous outcome or a major setback.

For example, “The military operation was a debacle, resulting in heavy casualties.”
In a political context, one might say, “The policy implementation turned into a debacle due to widespread protests.”
Another usage could be, “The team’s performance in the championship was a debacle, losing by a large margin.”

16. Ruin

To completely destroy or devastate something. In slang, “ruin” is often used to describe a situation or outcome that is extremely disappointing or unfortunate.

For example, “The rain ruined our outdoor picnic.”
A person might say, “I totally ruined my chances of getting that job by showing up late to the interview.”
In a sports context, someone might exclaim, “The team’s loss last night really ruined their chances of making it to the playoffs.”

17. Drain

To deplete or use up all of one’s energy, resources, or motivation. In slang, “drain” is often used to describe a situation or person that leaves someone feeling emotionally or physically exhausted.

For instance, “This job is really draining me.”
A person might say, “Dealing with toxic people can really drain your energy.”
In a relationship context, someone might say, “I ended things because the constant arguing was draining me emotionally.”

18. Bleeding

In slang, “bleeding” is often used to describe a situation or event where someone is losing or failing significantly.

For example, “Our team is bleeding in this game.”
A person might say, “I’m bleeding money with all these unexpected expenses.”
In a business context, someone might say, “The company is bleeding profits and needs to make some changes.”

19. Crash

To experience a sudden and significant failure or setback. In slang, “crash” is often used to describe a situation or event that ends in failure or disappointment.

For instance, “The project crashed and burned.”
A person might say, “My computer crashed right before I could save my work.”
In a party context, someone might say, “The party crashed when the police showed up.”

20. Burn

To suffer a significant loss or defeat. In slang, “burn” is often used to describe a situation or event where someone experiences a painful or embarrassing loss.

For example, “He got burned in the poker game.”
A person might say, “I got burned by that investment and lost all my money.”
In a sports context, someone might say, “The team got burned by their opponents in the championship game.”

21. Fall

To experience a defeat or setback in a competition or endeavor. “Fall” is often used to describe a loss in sports or other competitive situations.

For example, a sports commentator might say, “The team fell to their rivals in a close game.”
A fan might lament, “Our hopes for a championship fell after that devastating loss.”
In a discussion about a failed business venture, someone might say, “They fell short of their goals and had to close their doors.”

22. Slide

To gradually lose ground or advantage in a competition or endeavor. “Slide” is often used to describe a continuous decline or loss over time.

For instance, a commentator might say, “The team’s performance has been sliding downhill for the past few games.”
A fan might express disappointment, saying, “Our chances of making the playoffs are sliding away.”
In a discussion about a failing company, someone might comment, “The company’s stock price has been sliding for months.”

23. Fail

To be unsuccessful in achieving a desired outcome or goal. “Fail” is a common term used to describe a loss or defeat in various contexts.

For example, a teacher might mark a student’s test as a fail if they didn’t meet the required criteria.
A disappointed parent might say, “I failed to convince my child to eat their vegetables.”
In a discussion about a failed project, someone might admit, “We failed to meet the deadline due to unforeseen complications.”

24. Tank

To perform poorly or have a significant loss in a competition or activity. “Tank” is often used in sports or gaming contexts to describe a team or player’s poor performance.

For instance, a sports commentator might say, “The team completely tanked in the second half.”
A fan might express frustration, saying, “Our star player really tanked in that crucial game.”
In a discussion about a failed business strategy, someone might comment, “The new marketing campaign completely tanked, resulting in a loss of customers.”

25. Crash and burn

To experience a complete and disastrous failure or loss. “Crash and burn” is a dramatic phrase often used to describe a significant and devastating defeat.

For example, a movie critic might say, “The highly anticipated film crashed and burned at the box office.”
A disappointed competitor might say, “Our team crashed and burned in the championship match.”
In a discussion about a failed product launch, someone might comment, “The company’s latest release crashed and burned, resulting in huge financial losses.”

26. Fall short

When someone falls short, they do not achieve what they set out to do or do not reach the desired outcome.

For example, “Despite their best efforts, the team fell short of winning the championship.”
In a discussion about a failed project, someone might say, “We fell short of our target deadline.”
A person reflecting on a missed opportunity might say, “I fell short in my job interview and didn’t get the position.”

27. Come up empty

When someone comes up empty, they are unsuccessful in finding or obtaining what they were looking for.

For instance, “I searched all over the house but came up empty-handed.”
In a conversation about a failed treasure hunt, someone might say, “We explored the entire island and came up empty.”
A person discussing their unsuccessful job search might say, “I’ve been applying for months but keep coming up empty.”

28. Strike out

When someone strikes out, they fail to achieve the desired result or goal.

For example, “The batter struck out and didn’t make it to first base.”
In a discussion about a failed business venture, someone might say, “They invested a lot of money but ultimately struck out.”
A person reflecting on their unsuccessful attempt at a new hobby might say, “I tried painting, but I struck out and realized it’s not for me.”

29. Meet one’s Waterloo

To meet one’s Waterloo means to experience a significant and overwhelming defeat, often in a specific situation or against a particular opponent.

30. Go belly up

When something goes belly up, it means it goes bankrupt or fails completely.

For example, “The company went belly up after their major investor pulled out.”
In a discussion about a failed restaurant, someone might say, “They couldn’t attract enough customers and went belly up.”
A person reflecting on a failed business venture might say, “I invested all my savings, but it went belly up and I lost everything.”

31. Take a dive

This phrase is commonly used in sports to describe a situation where a player or team purposely loses a game for various reasons, such as to manipulate the outcome or gain an advantage in the future. It can also be used figuratively to describe intentionally failing or underperforming in any situation.

For example, “The boxer was accused of taking a dive in the championship fight.”
In a discussion about match-fixing, someone might say, “Taking a dive is a serious offense and can lead to severe consequences.”
A person might use this phrase humorously, saying, “I’m so bad at dancing, I always take a dive on the dance floor.”

32. Lay an egg

This slang phrase is often used to describe a situation where someone or something fails to meet expectations or produces a disappointing result. It is commonly associated with creative endeavors, such as performances, artistic works, or inventions.

For instance, “The comedian laid an egg during his stand-up routine.”
In a discussion about a poorly received movie, someone might say, “The film really laid an egg at the box office.”
A person might use this phrase humorously, saying, “I tried baking a cake, but it turned out to be a total egg-laying moment.”

33. Hit the skids

This slang phrase is used to describe a situation where someone or something goes through a rapid and significant decline or failure. It is often associated with financial or personal setbacks.

For example, “After losing his job, he hit the skids and struggled to make ends meet.”
In a discussion about a failing business, someone might say, “The company hit the skids due to poor management.”
A person might use this phrase metaphorically, saying, “My diet really hit the skids when I started eating fast food every day.”

34. Get the short end of the stick

This phrase is used to express a sense of being treated unfairly or receiving a disadvantageous outcome in a given situation. It implies being on the losing end or getting less favorable conditions compared to others involved.

For instance, “In the divorce settlement, she felt like she got the short end of the stick.”
In a discussion about workplace promotions, someone might say, “I always seem to get the short end of the stick when it comes to advancement.”
A person might use this phrase humorously, saying, “I wanted the last slice of pizza, but I got the short end of the stick.”

35. Fall on hard times

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone goes through a challenging period characterized by financial or personal difficulties. It implies a decline in one’s circ*mstances or well-being.

For example, “After losing his job, he fell on hard times and struggled to pay his bills.”
In a discussion about a family facing financial hardships, someone might say, “They’ve really fallen on hard times and need assistance.”
A person might use this phrase metaphorically, saying, “My car broke down, and I fell on hard times trying to get it repaired.”

36. Go under

This phrase is often used to describe a situation or endeavor that ends in failure or defeat. It can be used in various contexts, such as sports, business, or personal situations.

For example, “The company’s new product launch went under after just a few months.”
In a sports context, one might say, “Our team went under in the final minutes of the game.”
A person discussing a failed relationship might say, “Our marriage went under after years of struggling.”

37. Down the drain

This phrase is used to describe something that has been wasted or lost, often with a sense of disappointment or frustration. It can refer to a variety of situations, such as money, time, or effort.

For instance, “All our hard work went down the drain when the project was canceled.”
A person discussing a failed investment might say, “I lost thousands of dollars, and it all went down the drain.”
In a personal context, one might say, “I spent hours preparing for the presentation, but it all went down the drain when the technology failed.”

38. Gone with the wind

This phrase is used to describe something that has completely disappeared or been lost, often with a sense of finality or inevitability. It can be used in various contexts, such as opportunities, possessions, or relationships.

For example, “All my savings are gone with the wind after the market crash.”
A person discussing a missed chance might say, “The job offer was right there, and now it’s gone with the wind.”
In a romantic context, one might say, “Our love was strong, but it’s gone with the wind now.”

39. Tanked

This term is often used to describe a situation or performance that has failed or performed poorly. It can be used in various contexts, such as sports, business, or academic settings.

For instance, “The team tanked in the playoffs and didn’t make it to the finals.”
A person discussing a failed business venture might say, “Our startup tanked after just a year of operations.”
In an academic context, one might say, “I thought I was prepared for the exam, but I tanked and got a low grade.”

40. Burned

This term is used to describe a situation where someone has suffered a significant loss or setback, often with a sense of disappointment or regret. It can be used in various contexts, such as financial, personal, or professional situations.

For example, “I invested all my savings in that business, and I got burned when it failed.”
A person discussing a failed relationship might say, “I trusted them, but I got burned in the end.”
In a professional context, one might say, “I took a risk with that career move, but I got burned when it didn’t work out.”

41. Zeroed out

When you “zero out,” it means you have lost everything or have been completely defeated. The term is often used in gaming or financial contexts.

For example, in a video game, a player might say, “I got zeroed out in the final round.”
In a business context, someone might say, “We invested all our money and ended up getting zeroed out.”
A person discussing a failed venture might admit, “I took a big risk and ended up getting zeroed out.”

42. Eaten

When you “get eaten,” it means you have been defeated or overwhelmed by an opponent or situation. The term is commonly used in competitive gaming and sports.

For instance, a gamer might say, “I got eaten by the boss in the final level.”
In a sports context, a player might say, “We got eaten by the opposing team’s defense.”
A person describing a challenging experience might say, “I felt like I was getting eaten alive by the workload.”

43. Dropped the ball

When you “drop the ball,” it means you have failed to perform a task or meet expectations. The term is often used in sports and other competitive situations.

For example, a coach might say, “Our team dropped the ball in the final minutes of the game.”
In a work context, a colleague might say, “He dropped the ball on that project and missed an important deadline.”
A person reflecting on a missed opportunity might say, “I dropped the ball and didn’t take advantage of the situation.”

44. Cashed out

When you “cash out,” it means you have lost all of your money or assets, often as a result of a bad investment or financial decision.

For instance, a person discussing a failed business venture might say, “I cashed out and lost everything.”
In a gambling context, someone might say, “I got carried away at the casino and ended up cashing out.”
A person reflecting on a risky investment might admit, “I took a chance and ended up cashing out.”

45. Blew it

When you “blew it,” it means you made a critical mistake or failed to seize an opportunity, resulting in a loss or failure.

For example, a person reflecting on a missed job opportunity might say, “I blew it by not preparing for the interview.”
In a sports context, a player might say, “I had a chance to score, but I blew it with a bad shot.”
A person discussing a failed relationship might admit, “I had something good, but I blew it with my own insecurities.”

46. Bit the dust

This phrase is often used to describe a situation where someone or something has experienced a significant loss or failure.

For example, “After a long battle, the team bit the dust and lost the game.”
In a discussion about a failed business venture, someone might say, “Unfortunately, the company bit the dust and had to close its doors.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a personal setback, saying, “I studied all night for the exam, but I still bit the dust and got a low grade.”

47. Got skunked

This slang phrase is commonly used to describe a situation where someone or something has been completely outperformed or defeated.

For instance, “The opposing team scored five goals, while our team got skunked with zero.”
In a fishing context, someone might say, “I went out all day, but I got skunked and didn’t catch a single fish.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a failed job interview, saying, “I thought I aced it, but I got skunked and didn’t get the job.”

48. Got smoked

This slang phrase is often used to describe a situation where someone or something has been decisively defeated or outperformed.

For example, “The basketball team got smoked by their opponents, who scored twice as many points.”
In a video game context, someone might say, “I thought I was good, but I got smoked by a more experienced player.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a failed business venture, saying, “The competition was fierce, and we got smoked in the market.”

49. Got schooled

This phrase is commonly used to describe a situation where someone has been thoroughly outperformed or defeated, often in a way that highlights their lack of knowledge or skill.

For instance, “The debate team got schooled by their opponents, who presented strong arguments.”
In a sports context, someone might say, “Our team got schooled by the reigning champions, who demonstrated superior technique.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a failed attempt at a new hobby, saying, “I tried painting, but I got schooled by my friend who’s an artist.”

50. Got owned

This slang phrase is often used to describe a situation where someone has been decisively defeated or outperformed, often in a way that leaves them feeling humiliated or embarrassed.

For example, “The video game player got owned by their opponent, who scored multiple headshots.”
In a debate context, someone might say, “I thought I had a strong argument, but I got owned by my opponent’s counterpoints.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a failed attempt at a physical challenge, saying, “I tried to do a backflip, but I got owned and landed flat on my face.”

51. Got crushed

This slang phrase is used to describe a situation where someone or something is completely defeated or overwhelmed.

For example, “Our team got crushed in the basketball game last night.”
In a video game, a player might say, “I got crushed by that boss level.”
Someone might describe a difficult exam by saying, “I got absolutely crushed by that test.”

52. Got trounced

To be trounced means to be soundly beaten or defeated by someone or something.

For instance, “The opposing team trounced us in the soccer match.”
A person might say, “I got trounced in that chess game.”
In a debate, someone might admit, “I was trounced by my opponent’s arguments.”

53. Got thrashed

This slang term is used to describe a situation where someone or something is severely beaten or defeated.

For example, “Our team got thrashed in the baseball game.”
A person might say, “I got thrashed in that boxing match.”
Someone might describe a one-sided competition by saying, “The other team completely thrashed us.”

54. Got pummeled

To get pummeled means to be violently attacked or defeated by someone or something.

For instance, “He got pummeled by the bully.”
A person might say, “I got pummeled in that wrestling match.”
Someone might describe a physical fight by saying, “They pummeled each other until one gave up.”

55. Got creamed

To get creamed means to be badly defeated or overwhelmed by someone or something.

For example, “Our team got creamed in the hockey game.”
A person might say, “I got creamed in that poker game.”
Someone might describe a lopsided competition by saying, “We got creamed by the opposing team.”

56. Got hammered

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone or a team suffered a significant defeat or loss. It implies that the opposing side was so dominant that it felt like being hit hard with a hammer.

For example, “Our basketball team got hammered in last night’s game, losing by 30 points.”
In a video game context, a player might say, “I got hammered in that round, the other team was unstoppable.”
Someone discussing a political election might say, “The incumbent candidate got hammered in the polls, losing by a landslide.”

57. Got destroyed

This slang phrase is used to indicate a complete and utter loss or defeat. It implies that the opposing side was so dominant that it left nothing standing.

For instance, “Our soccer team got destroyed in today’s match, losing 5-0.”
In a gaming context, a player might say, “I got destroyed by a professional gamer, they didn’t even break a sweat.”
Someone discussing a debate might say, “The candidate got destroyed by their opponent’s well-prepared arguments.”

58. Got wrecked

This slang phrase is used to describe a situation where someone or a team suffered a severe loss or defeat. It implies that the opposing side caused significant damage or destruction.

For example, “Our hockey team got wrecked in the championship game, losing 7-1.”
In a video game context, a player might say, “I got wrecked by a hacker, they wiped out my entire team.”
Someone discussing a business competition might say, “Our company got wrecked by a competitor’s innovative product.”

59. Got annihilated

This slang phrase is used to convey a complete and total loss or defeat. It implies that the opposing side completely eliminated or obliterated the other side.

For instance, “Our debate team got annihilated in the final round, losing every single point.”
In a gaming context, a player might say, “I got annihilated by a high-level player, they didn’t give me a chance.”
Someone discussing a military battle might say, “The enemy forces got annihilated in a surprise attack, leaving no survivors.”

60. Got obliterated

This slang phrase is used to indicate a severe and complete loss or defeat. It implies that the opposing side was so dominant that it completely wiped out or erased the other side.

For example, “Our baseball team got obliterated in today’s game, losing 15-2.”
In a video game context, a player might say, “I got obliterated by a top-ranked player, they didn’t even break a sweat.”
Someone discussing a legal case might say, “The defense’s argument got obliterated by the prosecution’s strong evidence.”

Top 60 Slang For Loss – Meaning & Usage - FluentSlang (2024)