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lost for words
01
temporarily unable to think of what to say or how to express oneself, often due to shock, surprise, or intense emotion
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "lost for words" and when to use it?
The idiom "lost for words" originated from the idea that when someone is truly surprised, shocked, or overwhelmed by an event or situation, they may be unable to find the right words to express their thoughts or feelings. It is used to describe a moment of speechlessness. In various contexts, it can denote a lack of vocabulary to describe something or even indicate a moment of profound emotional impact.
Example
When I saw the breathtaking sunset over the ocean, I was completely lost for words.
After receiving the unexpected promotion, Sarah was lost for words during her acceptance speech.
The touching eulogy at the funeral left everyone in attendance lost for words.
