What are the definitions of “miss out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Not do something enjoyable or rewarding.
It'll be great, you'll be MISSING OUT if you don't come.
- 2Not include.
Make sure you don't MISS anyone OUT when you call their names.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “miss out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb miss out is to not do something enjoyable or rewarding, often because of a lack of opportunity or time. It means that someone is not able to participate in an event or activity that others are enjoying.
What are the different verb forms of “miss out”?
| Root Verb | miss out |
| Third Person Singular Present | misses out |
| Present Participle | missing out |
| Simple Past | missed out |
| Past Participle | missed out |
Example
I don't want to miss out on the fun at the party.
Example
She always misses out on the best sales because she's too busy.
Example
He is missing out on a great opportunity by not applying for the job.
Example
They missed out on the concert because they didn't buy tickets in time.
Example
I have missed out on so many events because of my busy schedule.
What kind of phrasal verb is “miss out”?
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.)
Intransitive verb
“miss out” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
I missed out on the party because I was sick.
Example
She missed out on the promotion because she didn't apply.
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
“miss out” 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
I missed out on the party because I was sick.
Example
She missed out on the promotion because she didn't apply.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “miss out”?
Good things to know
Does “miss out” have an informal or formal tone?
Miss out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.