From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englishbe at a lossbe at a lossEXPRESSto be confused and uncertain about what to do or say When her son finally left home, Emily felt completely at a loss.be at a loss to do something Detectives are so far at a loss to explain the reason for his death. He seemed, for once, at a loss for words (=unable to think what to say). → loss
Examples from the Corpus
be at a loss• Lord said he was at a loss to find room to play his shots in the first two games.• He was at a loss to explain to himself why he found it so appealing.• Her performances were legendary, and I am at a loss to describe them now.• I am at a loss to understand all this.• I was at a loss with you being so beautiful and intelligent and all that.• Still, you will not be at a loss for conversation with such an unusual choice.• With the provisions stored away, Robbie was at a loss for occupation. 