PoliticsAugust 21, 2026

pyrrhic

PEER-ik

Definition

Referring to a victory or success that is won at such a great cost that it is equivalent to a defeat.

Etymology

This word originates from the name of King Pyrrhus of Epirus, who suffered immense casualties in his victories against the Romans in the 3rd century BC. He reportedly remarked that another such victory would utterly ruin him.

In the news

The author uses this term to describe the Prime Minister's political success in passing legislation, suggesting that the long-term consequences and political backlash might make the win ultimately damaging.

A valuable lesson in why religion and politics don’t mix

Read the full article ↗

SMH.com.au

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