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    Chinese Grammar

    Using 失利 (shīlì) to express 'defeat' or 'loss'

    Actions & Events
    Result & Consequence

    Structure

    Subject + 失利

    Explanation

    失利 means 'defeat' or 'loss,' used as a formal and somewhat softer way to describe losing a competition or failing in an endeavor. It is commonly found in sports reporting and carries a tone of unfortunate outcome rather than harsh criticism.

    Examples

    • 球队在半决赛中失利,无缘冠军。

      Qiúduì zài bàn juésài zhōng shīlì, wúyuán guànjūn.

      The team lost in the semifinals and missed out on the championship.

    • 他在这次考试中失利,决定明年再试一次。

      Tā zài zhè cì kǎoshì zhōng shīlì, juédìng míngnián zài shì yī cì.

      He failed in this exam and decided to try again next year.

    • 尽管首轮失利,她依然保持了良好的心态。

      Jǐnguǎn shǒu lún shīlì, tā yīrán bǎochí le liánghǎo de xīntài.

      Despite losing in the first round, she still maintained a positive mindset.

    Using 失利 (shīlì) to express 'defeat' or 'loss' | Chinese Grammar