blow
n. countable B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˈbɫoʊ// UK //blˈəʊ// blow
n. A sudden event that is very disappointing or shocking. It can be a piece of bad news or a setback that makes you feel sad.
n. A sudden adverse event that causes emotional shock or distress; a severe disappointment or setback. This sense is figurative, extending from the literal meaning of a physical strike.
Losing the game was a big blow.
The factory's closure was a terrible blow to the local economy.
While the initial rejection was a significant blow to her confidence, it ultimately strengthened her resolve to prove her critics wrong.
Usage
Commonly modified by adjectives like 'heavy', 'severe', or 'crushing'. It takes the preposition 'to' to specify what is affected.