a shame

a shame

An unfortunate situation. The term is used either in consolation or ironically. I heard that things didn't work out between you two, that's a real shame. You only have two yachts after the third one sunk? Aw, what a shame!
See also: shame
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • as one does
  • as you do
  • GLWT
  • benevolent overlord
  • (you) win a few, (you) lose a few
  • Win a few, lose a few
  • win some, lose some
  • WSLS
  • you win some, you lose some
  • (something) is just what (one) needs
References in periodicals archive
Matthew, who was promoting this summer's Ladies Scottish Open at Archerfield, said: "The R&A do so much for women's golf so it's a shame in a way that can get lost.
DO THE RIGHT THING R&A
If so, what a shame screenwriters Tina Mabry and Abigail Shafran didn't just steal some of the GG's sharper slogans and poster designs, because this fictional group's idea of satire is pretty lame.
Itty Bitty Titty Committee
Open officials said yesterday it would be "a shame" if no women attempted to qualify for this year's championship at Hoylake.
Having done that, it would be something of a shame if they did not take advantage of the opportunity.
Golf: Open chiefs look for female support
It's a shame he didn't have the guts to stick with it.
In defense of steroids: Jose Canseco's surprisingly sensible case for juice