missing out on something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'missing out on something' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when talking about something that you haven't been able to experience or take advantage of. For example: "I'm really missing out on something by not having the time to travel this summer".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He'll be more persuaded knowing he may be missing out on something.[1] This one should be taken with a grain of salt.

WikiHow

Could they be missing out on something?

The New York Times

So are we missing out on something?

The Telegraph

They could be missing out on something.

The Guardian - Books

If they did, people who don't have nightmares would be missing out on something — and, clearly, they're not".

The New Yorker

"Without having serious national conversation about quotas, I think we're going to be missing out on something".

The Guardian

As a culture, are we missing out on something, not having a strong oral tradition?

Vice

There's a fear that if we don't gain the new info, we'll be missing out on something important.

Huffington Post

This can be difficult, because you feel like you're missing out on something or that no one will find you attractive!

WikiHow

They're missing out on something great.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"If I didn't march in the opening ceremony this time, I'd be missing out on something.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "missing out on something" to express the feeling of being excluded from a positive experience or opportunity. It often implies a sense of regret or potential loss.

Common error

Avoid using "missing out on something" when referring to tangible objects. It's best suited for intangible experiences, opportunities, or feelings. For example, instead of saying "I'm missing out on that car", consider "I can't afford that car".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "missing out on something" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a larger clause. It expresses a sense of potential loss or regret about not participating in an experience or opportunity. Ludwig confirms the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "missing out on something" is a common and grammatically sound way to express the feeling of potential loss or regret about not participating in an experience or opportunity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is versatile, appearing in various contexts ranging from news and media to academic writing. While generally neutral in register, it leans slightly towards informal usage. To avoid misuse, ensure it refers to intangible experiences rather than tangible objects. Alternatives like "missing a valuable opportunity" or "losing out on an advantage" may suit more formal contexts. Its widespread usage reflects its effectiveness in conveying a relatable human experience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

missing a valuable opportunity

This alternative emphasizes the loss of a chance that could have been beneficial.

losing out on an advantage

This suggests a failure to gain a potential benefit or edge.

failing to experience something rewarding

This highlights the absence of a positive or enriching experience.

not taking advantage of an offering

This focuses on the act of neglecting to use a resource or opportunity that is available.

being deprived of an experience

This emphasizes the sense of being denied or prevented from having a specific experience.

skipping an important event

This alternative focuses on the act of not attending an important gathering or occasion.

neglecting a crucial aspect

This refers to the act of overlooking or disregarding a significant component or detail.

forgoing a worthwhile benefit

This highlights the conscious decision to give up a positive gain or advantage.

passing up a chance

This describes the act of letting an opportunity go by without seizing it.

missing the boat

This idiom suggests that an opportunity has been lost and is now unavailable.

FAQs

How can I use "missing out on something" in a sentence?

You can use "missing out on something" to express a sense of regret or concern about not participating in an activity or experience. For example, "If you don't travel, you're "missing out on something" amazing".

What are some alternatives to "missing out on something"?

Some alternatives include "missing a valuable opportunity", "losing out on an advantage", or "failing to experience something rewarding", depending on the specific context.

Is "missing out on something" formal or informal?

"Missing out on something" is generally considered informal but is acceptable in most contexts, including news and media. For more formal situations, consider using alternatives like "failing to capitalize on a benefit".

What does it mean to experience FOMO related to "missing out on something"?

FOMO, or Fear Of Missing Out, is the anxiety that an exciting or interesting event may currently be happening elsewhere, often aroused by posts seen on social media. It's the feeling that you're "missing out on something", leading to a desire to stay connected with what others are doing.