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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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good at missing

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "good at missing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who frequently fails to achieve a goal or target, often in a humorous or self-deprecating manner. Example: "He’s so good at missing the point in discussions that we often have to explain things multiple times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

pic.twitter.com/Yn3X7fjlww She's good at missing planes.

News & Media

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

A frantic second half saw good chances missed at both ends, with Frei and Kasami clearing off the line from a corner before the former's finish sailed wide at the other end under pressure from substitute keeper Ross Turnbull.

News & Media

BBC

I think that there are two really important qualities that I think sometimes people wanting to be good allies miss at the beginning.

News & Media

Huffington Post

Some critics also felt that the book ended "somewhat precipitously", that after the aliens arrived, the crisis was resolved too quickly, giving the impression "that there was at least a good, long chapter missing".

I miss the good things, I miss the good things.

News & Media

The Guardian

Opportunity too good to miss".

News & Media

The New York Times

She was too good to miss.

News & Media

The New Yorker

But this is too good to miss.

News & Media

Independent

The visitors got things going with a penalty after three minutes from Rhys Priestland and Ulster's cause was done no good at all when Ian Humphreys missed his first two shots at goal in the sixth and ninth minutes.

But if he's cleaning this one, I'm good at giving directions: 'You missed a spot, you know.' " By the same token, the men know not to act rashly on their passion for cars without their wives' approval.

News & Media

The New York Times

The trust that is essential to building up a good care relationship is missing at a moment like this.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "good at missing" to describe a humorous or self-deprecating tendency, ensure the context makes it clear you're not literally praising someone for failing. For example, "He's so "good at missing" deadlines, it's become a running joke."

Common error

Avoid using "good at missing" in contexts where a straightforward positive attribute is expected. This phrase is often ironic or humorous; using it without that intention can confuse your audience.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

83%

Authority and reliability

4.3/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "good at missing" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, describing a person or thing that is skilled or adept at failing to achieve a specific outcome or to notice something. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "good at missing" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe a tendency to fail at something, often with a humorous or self-deprecating tone. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, it's essential to consider the context and avoid misinterpretations in formal settings. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, the phrase implies a recurring pattern rather than a one-time event. Alternatives like "adept at overlooking" or "skilled at neglecting" may provide clearer communication in certain situations. This phrase is commonly used to point out someone's consistent inability to achieve a goal or understand something.

FAQs

How can "good at missing" be used in a sentence?

You can use "good at missing" to describe someone who frequently fails to achieve a goal, often humorously. For example, "He's "good at missing" the point in discussions."

What's a less ambiguous alternative to "good at missing"?

If you want to avoid potential misinterpretation, consider alternatives like "adept at overlooking" or "skilled at neglecting", depending on the specific meaning you intend.

Is it appropriate to use "good at missing" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "good at missing" is generally more suitable for informal or conversational contexts. In formal writing, consider more precise alternatives that clearly convey the intended meaning.

How does "good at missing" differ from simply saying someone "misses" something?

"Good at missing" implies a habitual or skillful (often ironic) tendency to miss, whereas simply saying someone "misses" something refers to a single instance of failing to achieve or notice something. The former suggests a pattern, while the latter is a specific event.

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Source & Trust

83%

Authority and reliability

4.3/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: