What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
misplace
Example
I seem to have misplaced my keys. [misplaced: past participle]
Example
She often misplaces her phone and spends hours looking for it. [misplaces: present tense]
lose
Example
I lost my wallet on the bus and never found it again. [lost: past tense]
Example
He is afraid to lose his job if he doesn't meet the deadline. [lose: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lose is more commonly used than misplace in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and conveys a stronger emotional impact. Misplace is less common and usually used in casual or informal situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between misplace and lose?
While misplace is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, lose can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
