squander an opportunity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "squander an opportunity" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to waste or miss out on a chance or opportunity. Example: "John had the chance to study abroad, but he squandered the opportunity by not applying for the scholarship on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

At the very least, we would squander an opportunity we might never have again.

The New York Times

The danger is that political squabbling will squander an opportunity for Democrats and Republicans to reach an important agreement.

The New York Times

And at this point in his career and his life, Tyson can hardly afford to squander an opportunity.

The New York Times - Sports

But its existence makes solving them that much harder," he announced.Amid Mr Stewart's scorn for punditry, he managed to squander an opportunity to address the problems he claims the media spin-cycle distorts.

The Economist

The simple answer is that good friends -- two Frenchmen who have restored a vast 19th-century mansion in the area -- had insisted over a typically late-night dinner that I must see the great temple and that to visit it without partaking of the ritual baths was to squander an opportunity to experience grace.

The New York Times

Within days, congressional sources tell the Guardian, the premiere NSA reform bill of the last Congress, known as the USA Freedom Act, is set for reintroduction – and this time, some former supporters fear the latest version of the bill will squander an opportunity for even broader surveillance reform.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

It squanders an opportunity to weaken Iran.

The New York Times

But when Ms. Klein suggested that she might be squandering an opportunity, Ms. Schumer switched gears.

The New York Times - Arts

Dr. Field of Purdue University said the administration squandered an opportunity by drawing the rules too broadly.

The New York Times

But the Republican claim that this squandered an opportunity to fell the regime is questionable.

The Economist

But in the final minute of regulation, the Steelers squandered an opportunity of their own.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "squander an opportunity", ensure that the context clearly indicates what specific actions or inactions led to the opportunity being wasted. Provide enough detail to make the consequence understandable.

Common error

Avoid using "squander an opportunity" in situations where the missed chance is minor or easily recoverable. The phrase implies a significant loss or consequence that cannot be easily undone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "squander an opportunity" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate in a sentence. It describes the action of wasting or failing to take advantage of a chance. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "squander an opportunity" is a grammatically correct and neutrally registered expression used to convey criticism or regret over a missed or wasted chance. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a valid and frequently used phrase, particularly in journalistic and analytical contexts. It implies a significant loss due to carelessness or poor judgment. Remember to use it when the missed chance carries considerable weight and irreversible consequences, and ensure the context makes clear the reasons behind the wasted opportunity. Alternative phrases like "miss out on a chance" or "fail to capitalize on" can be used in formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

waste a chance

Emphasizes the unproductive use of a chance.

pass up an opportunity

Suggests a deliberate choice to decline an offer or possibility.

blow an opportunity

Implies a significant and often irreversible failure to take advantage of a chance.

miss out on a chance

Focuses on the act of not participating or benefiting from a chance.

fail to seize an opportunity

Emphasizes the lack of action taken to grasp a chance.

lose out on an opportunity

Highlights the negative consequence of not securing a beneficial opportunity.

let slip an opportunity

Suggests a careless or negligent failure to seize a chance.

forgo an opportunity

Implies a voluntary decision to give up an opportunity, often for a specific reason.

neglect an opportunity

Indicates a lack of attention or care in handling a chance.

drop the ball on an opportunity

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey a failure to handle an opportunity effectively.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "squander an opportunity" in a formal context?

In formal writing, consider using phrases like "miss out on a chance", "fail to capitalize on", or "forgo an opportunity" to convey a similar meaning with a more elevated tone.

Is it always negative to "squander an opportunity"?

Yes, "squander an opportunity" always carries a negative connotation, implying that a valuable chance was wasted or mishandled. There's no positive spin to this phrase.

What's the difference between "waste an opportunity" and "squander an opportunity"?

While both phrases suggest a missed chance, "squander an opportunity" often implies a greater degree of carelessness or recklessness in the loss, suggesting a more significant or irreversible consequence than simply "waste an opportunity".

Can "squander an opportunity" be used for both personal and professional situations?

Yes, "squander an opportunity" is appropriate for both personal and professional contexts where a chance for improvement, progress, or success has been wasted. The key is that the situation involves a significant loss due to inaction or poor decision-making.