What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
missed
Example
I missed the train this morning. [missed: past tense]
Example
She missed the opportunity to study abroad. [missed: verb]
overlook
Example
I overlooked the typo in my essay. [overlooked: past tense]
Example
The manager decided to overlook the employee's mistake. [overlook: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Missed is more common than overlooked in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. Overlooked is more formal and less commonly used, but it can be useful in specific situations where a more precise word is needed.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between missed and overlook?
Overlooked is more formal than missed, and it is often used in professional or academic contexts. Missed is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
