Differences between lose out and lose out on

Lose out means to be at a disadvantage or to fail to gain something, while lose out on means to miss an opportunity or to lose something that could have been gained.

Meanings and Definitions: lose out vs lose out on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Lose out

1Be at a disadvantage.
Many people LOST OUT when the new regulations were enforced.

Lose out on

1Not gain or have something advantageous.
Because I left the company, I LOST OUT ON my bonus.

Usage Examples: lose out, lose out on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

lose out

Example

If we don't act quickly, we might lose out on this great opportunity.

Example

She loses out on the promotion because she didn't apply in time.

lose out on

Example

If you don't apply for the scholarship, you might lose out on a great opportunity.

Example

She loses out on the promotion because she didn't meet the deadline.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Lose out

miss the boat

To miss an opportunity or chance to do something.

Example

He missed the boat on investing in that company, and now it's worth millions.

fall behind

To lag or be at a disadvantage compared to others.

Example

If you don't study regularly, you'll fall behind in your classes and struggle to catch up.

come up short

To fail to achieve a goal or expectation.

Example

Despite their efforts, the team came up short in the final game and lost the championship.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Lose out on

miss the chance

To miss an opportunity or chance to do something.

Example

She missed the chance to study abroad because she didn't apply on time.

let slip away

To lose or miss something that could have been gained or achieved.

Example

He let his dream job slip away by not preparing well for the interview.

forego

To give up or sacrifice something that could have been gained or achieved.

Example

She decided to forego the party to finish her project and not lose out on a good grade.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “lose”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Phrasal Verbs with “out on”

Differences in lose out vs lose out on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: lose out or lose out on?

In everyday conversation, lose out is less common than lose out on. Lose out on is used more frequently because it's a more specific phrase that refers to missed opportunities or losses. Lose out is a more general phrase that can refer to various types of disadvantages or failures.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of lose out and lose out on

Lose out and lose out on are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of lose out and lose out on

The tone of lose out and lose out on can differ based on context. Lose out often carries a negative or regretful tone when referring to missed opportunities or disadvantages, while lose out on typically has a more specific and practical tone, especially when referring to losing something that could have been gained.

lose out & lose out on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Lose out

Synonyms

miss out
be disadvantaged
suffer a loss
fail to benefit
be left behind
be defeated

Antonyms

gain
benefit
win
succeed
profit
take advantage

Lose out on

Synonyms

miss out on
fail to gain
fail to obtain
fail to secure
not benefit from
not take advantage of

Antonyms

gain
secure
obtain
achieve
benefit from
take advantage of