Cool MateLet too many things go by vs Neglect
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Let too many things go by
Top 3,000 (common)
Neglect
Top 3,000 (common)C1verb
| Let too many things go by | Neglect | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //lɛt tuː ˈmɛni θɪŋz ɡoʊ baɪ//🇺🇸 //lɛt tuː ˈmɛni θɪŋz ɡoʊ baɪ// | 🇬🇧 //nɪˈɡlɛkt//🇺🇸 //nɪˈɡlɛkt// |
| Meaning | To overlook or ignore too many things. | To not pay attention to something or someone. |
| Example | If we let too many things go by, we might miss our chance for success. | He tends to neglect his health due to his busy schedule. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 3,000 (common) | Top 3,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | - | C1 |
| Part of speech | verb | |
| Collocations | let opportunities go by, let chances go by, let moments go by | neglect responsibilities, neglect duties, neglect health, neglect a cause |
| Antonyms | - | care, attend, nurture |
| Common mistakes | Confusing with 'let too few things go by'., Using in overly formal writing., Misplacing the context of action versus inaction. | Confused with 'neglected' as past tense only., Used without an object, neglect must involve something specific., Misuse as a synonym for 'ignore' without understanding the depth. |
| Usage notes | This phrase is often used in casual conversation when discussing missed opportunities or being passive. It may not be suitable for very formal contexts. | Used in formal and informal contexts; avoid in casual conversation unless discussing serious issues. It's appropriate for discussing responsibilities, care, or attention. |
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Frequently asked questions: Let too many things go by vs Neglect
What's the difference between Let too many things go by and Neglect?
Let too many things go by: To overlook or ignore too many things. Neglect: To not pay attention to something or someone.
Can you show an example of each?
Let too many things go by: If we let too many things go by, we might miss our chance for success. Neglect: He tends to neglect his health due to his busy schedule.
Can I use Let too many things go by and Neglect interchangeably?
Not always. Let too many things go by and Neglect are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.