A pyrrhic victory is often misunderstood as a victory that lacks real significance or value. However, it actually refers to a win that comes at such a great expense that it negates any sense of achievement the victor might feel. This type of victory highlights the irony of winning while suffering devastating losses, making it a bittersweet triumph rather than a purely hollow one.

In his book "Troublesome Words," author Bill Bryson elucidates this concept, emphasizing the heavy toll that accompanies such victories. The victorious side may celebrate their success but will often find that the costs incurred diminish the overall worth of their triumph, revealing the complexities and nuances involved in the nature of victory and defeat.