lose ground

lose ground  {v. phr.}
1. To go backward; retreat.
The soldiers began to lose ground when their leader was killed.
Compare: GIVE GROUND.
2. To become weaker; get worse; not improve.
The sick man began to lose ground when his cough grew worse.
When the Democrats are in power, the Republicans lose ground.
Contrast: GAIN GROUND.
Categories: {v. phr.}