Baffled, not even breaking even (2,1,4)

I believe the answer is:

at a loss

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'baffled' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

(Other definitions for at a loss that I've seen before include "Not knowing what to say or do - profitless" , "makes one puzzled" , "Puzzled and indecisive? No profit in it" , "Perplexed - no profit in it" , "Nonplussed" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.

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