at a loss for words

Meaning

This expression describes being so shocked, surprised, angry, or touched that you cannot think of anything to say. It indicates a state of temporary speechlessness due to strong emotions. It is a very common idiom used in both positive and negative emotional situations.

Examples

• When they announced that I had won the award, I was completely at a loss for words.

  When they announced that I had won the award, I was completely at a loss for words.

• His rude behavior left me at a loss for words.

  His rude behavior left me at a loss for words.

• For once in his life, the talkative host was at a loss for words.

  For once in his life, the talkative host was at a loss for words.

• She was at a loss for words when she saw the beautiful sunset.

  She was at a loss for words when she saw the beautiful sunset.

• I'm at a loss for words to express how grateful I am for your help.

  I'm at a loss for words to express how grateful I am for your help.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I was lost for words.

  ✓ I was at a loss for words.

  While 'lost for words' is sometimes heard in informal British English, the standard, globally recognized idiom is 'at a loss for words.'

• ✗ She was at a loss of words.

  ✓ She was at a loss for words.

  The correct preposition to use here is 'for,' not 'of.'

Related Expressions

Practice

• The sudden news of her promotion left her ________.

  💡 Unable to speak due to shock or excitement.

  Show answer

  at a loss for words

• I am ________ to explain how much this means to me.

  💡 Feeling too emotional to find the right words.

  Show answer

  at a loss for words