What context can I use each word in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

miss

Example

I missed the ball and it went over my head. [miss: verb]

Example

I really miss my family when I'm away from home. [miss: verb]

Example

I can't come to the party tonight, I have to miss it. [miss: verb]

fail

Example

I failed my math exam because I didn't study enough. [fail: verb]

Example

The company will fail if they don't make changes to their business model. [fail: verb]

Example

The car failed to start this morning. [fail: verb]

Definitions of miss and fail

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Key differences and similarities of miss and fail

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Good things to know

Which word is more common?

Fail is more commonly used than miss in everyday language, especially in academic or professional settings. Miss is more commonly used in casual conversation or personal contexts.

What’s the difference in the tone of formality between miss and fail?

Fail is generally considered more formal than miss, and is more commonly used in academic or professional settings.