A1verb1K

Miss

UK /["/mɪs/","/ˈmɪsɪz/","/mɪst/","/ˈmɪsɪŋ/"]/US /["/mɪs/","/ˈmɪsɪz/","/mɪst/","/ˈmɪsɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to be or arrive too late for something

In simple words: To not catch or hit something.

Examples

  • I miss my family when I am away from home.
  • She felt sad because she missed the bus this morning.
  • Don't miss the chance to see this amazing movie!
  • He misses playing soccer with his friends.
  • If you miss the meeting, you will miss important information.
  • She always misses her little brother when he is at school.
  • I don't want to miss out on any fun activities while I'm here.

Usage notes

Use 'miss' when referring to not being able to catch or reach something. It can also refer to feelings, like missing someone. Avoid using it in overly formal situations.

Grammar pattern

miss + object

Memory hint

Think of a dartboard — if you throw a dart and it doesn't hit the target, you 'miss'!

Collocations

  • completely
  • barely
  • just
  • by
  • completely
  • easily
  • cannot
  • completely
  • easily
  • cannot
  • completely
  • easily
  • cannot

Synonyms

  • escape

Antonyms

  • catch
  • hit
  • achieve

Common mistakes

  • 'Miss' is sometimes confused with 'miss out on', which has a different meaning.
  • 'Miss' should not be used as a noun unless referring to a title (like 'Miss Smith').
  • Learners may use 'miss' instead of 'lose' when discussing something that was once owned.