Pyrrhic Victory
A Pyrrhic Victory refers to a win that comes at such a significant cost to the victor that it is almost tantamount to defeat. The term originates from King Pyrrhus of Epirus, whose army suffered irreplaceable casualties in defeating the Romans at the Battle of Heraclea in 280 BC and the Battle of Asculum in 279 BC. Although he won these battles, the heavy losses weakened his forces and ultimately led to his inability to sustain the campaign.
In modern usage, a Pyrrhic Victory can apply to various contexts, including business, sports, and personal conflicts. It highlights situations where the toll of winning—whether in terms of resources, morale, or relationships—outweighs the benefits of the victory itself. This concept serves as a cautionary reminder that not all wins are worth the price paid to achieve them.