From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englishdeal a blow (to somebody/something)deal a blow (to somebody/something)to cause harm to someone or something – used in news reportsdeal a heavy/severe/serious etc blow The sanctions have dealt a severe blow to the local tourism industry. This will deal a blow to consumer confidence. → deal
Examples from the Corpus
deal a blow (to somebody/something)• His stance was apologetic, almost cringing as if he expected to be dealt a blow.• Very many died without ever a chance of dealing a blow in return.• It also dealt a blow to his testimonial, which nevertheless realised more than £2000.• But it will deal a blow to the agreement, which allows publishers to set a minimum price for most books. 