What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fail
Example
I failed the math test because I didn't study enough. [fail: verb]
Example
The company's new product launch failed to meet sales expectations. [failed: past tense]
lose
Example
I always lose my keys and spend hours looking for them. [lose: verb]
Example
The team lost the championship game by one point. [lost: past tense]
Example
The company lost a lot of money due to poor investments. [lose: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lose is more commonly used than fail in everyday language. Lose is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while fail is more specific and often used in academic or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fail and lose?
Fail is typically associated with a more formal tone, while lose can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
