What are the definitions of “lose out on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Not gain or have something advantageous.
Because I left the company, I LOST OUT ON my bonus.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “lose out on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb lose out on is to miss an opportunity or not gain something advantageous. It often refers to situations where someone could have benefited from something, but they didn't because of a particular action or decision.
What are the different verb forms of “lose out on”?
| Root Verb | lose out on |
| Third Person Singular Present | loses out on |
| Present Participle | losing out on |
| Simple Past | lost out on |
| Past Participle | lost 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.
Example
They are losing out on potential customers by not having an online presence.
Example
He lost out on the chance to meet his favorite author because he arrived late.
Example
They had lost out on a lot of money by not investing in the stock market earlier.
What kind of phrasal verb is “lose out on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“lose out on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She lost out on the job offer because she didn't prepare for the interview.
Example
He lost out on the chance to buy the limited edition sneakers.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“lose out on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She lost out on the job offer because she didn't prepare for the interview.
Example
He lost out on the chance to buy the limited edition sneakers.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “lose out on”?
Good things to know
Does “lose out on” have an informal or formal tone?
Lose out on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
