Question 1

What does "a Pyrrhic victory" mean?

Accepted Answer

A victory that inflicts such a devastating toll on the winner that it is tantamount to defeat.

Question 2

How do you use "a Pyrrhic victory" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

Winning the lawsuit was a Pyrrhic victory — the legal fees bankrupted the company.

Question 3

Is "a Pyrrhic victory" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"a Pyrrhic victory" is formal — used mainly in written or official contexts. From King Pyrrhus of Epirus, who defeated the Romans but suffered devastating losses; used in politics and business.