pyrrhic victory: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

It originates from King Pyrrhus of Epirus, who defeated the Romans at the Battle of Asculum in 279 BC but suffered such catastrophic losses to his own army that he reportedly said, 'Another such victory and I am undone.'

Yes, it is commonly used metaphorically in politics, business, law, sports, and even personal situations to describe any success where the costs or negative consequences outweigh the benefits.

Traditionally, yes, as it derives from a proper name (Pyrrhus). Modern usage, especially in metaphorical contexts, increasingly accepts the lowercase 'pyrrhic'.

A 'hollow victory' emphasizes the lack of real satisfaction, benefit, or meaning. A 'pyrrhic victory' is a specific type of hollow victory that stresses the ruinously high cost incurred to achieve it, often threatening the victor's future viability.

A victory that comes at such a devastating cost to the victor that it is tantamount to defeat.

Pyrrhic victory is usually formal, literary, academic, historical, journalistic (often in political or military analysis). in register.

Pyrrhic victory: in British English it is pronounced /ˌpɪr.ɪk ˈvɪk.tər.i/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌpɪr.ɪk ˈvɪk.tɚ.i/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.