What does “FOMO” mean?
The slang phrase "FOMO" means 'Fear of missing out.' When someone has "FOMO", they are afraid of not being present or involved in a fun or exciting event or experience that others are participating in. It is a feeling of anxiety or unease that stems from the fear of being left out or not being included in something enjoyable.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
I couldn't skip the party, I had serious FOMO.
Example
She always attends every event because of her FOMO.
Example
I hate feeling FOMO, but I couldn't make it to the concert.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing the fear or anxiety of missing out
I couldn't skip the party, I had serious FOMO.
She always attends every event because of her FOMO.
- 2Expressing the dislike or discomfort of feeling left out
I hate feeling FOMO, but I couldn't make it to the concert.
I had major FOMO when I saw all the pictures from the trip.
- 3Explaining the motivation behind attending events or participating in activities
I joined the club to avoid FOMO and be part of the group.
He always says yes to invitations because he doesn't want to experience FOMO.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The acronym "FOMO" originated in the early 2000s and gained popularity through social media and online communication platforms. It is commonly used in modern culture to describe the anxiety or unease that arises from the fear of missing out on social events or experiences.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "FOMO" is typically used as an acronym and is not commonly used on its own without supporting words.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "FOMO" is not offensive. It is a common acronym used to describe the fear of missing out.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "FOMO" is commonly used by younger generations, especially millennials and Gen Z. It is popular among individuals who are active on social media and are familiar with internet culture.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "FOMO" is not specific to any particular accent or region. It is widely used across English-speaking regions and has become a part of mainstream vocabulary.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- fear of being left out
- fear of missing something
- fear of not being included
- fear of being excluded
- fear of not experiencing something
Antonyms
- not afraid of missing out
- not concerned about missing something
- not worried about not being included
- not anxious about being excluded
- not bothered by not experiencing something
