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miss
The word centers on the concept of a gap—either physical, temporal, or emotional. It describes the void created when an intended connection is not made. In a physical sense, it implies a failure of precision or timing. Unlike 'fail', which is general, 'miss' specifically suggests that a target existed but was bypassed. Emotionally, it conveys a longing for something absent. It is a soft, often melancholic word that focuses on the feeling of lack rather than active grief. As a title, it denotes a specific social status (unmarried), carrying a formal and traditional tone, though it can feel dated depending on the professional context.
Countable when referring to a specific instance of failure to hit a target ('a near miss') or as a formal title for an unmarried woman ('Miss Johnson'). Uncountable is not typically applicable here; however, it functions as a countable noun in almost all semantic contexts provided.
💬Conversación Casual
Did you miss your appointment with the advisor? I'm seeing red.
I totally blanked. Adulting is honestly a scam.
Meanings
To fail to hit, reach, or come into contact with someone or something.
"The archer managed to miss the target by a few inches."
To feel distress or sadness at the absence of someone or something.
"I really miss my family when I am traveling for work."
To fail to attend, catch, or notice something.
"If you leave now, you will miss the start of the movie."
An act of failing to hit or reach a target.
"It was a near miss, but the car avoided the pedestrian."