lose out

verb

lost out; losing out; loses out

intransitive verb

: to fail to win in competition : fail to receive an expected reward or gain

Examples of lose out in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But someone signing somewhere else isn’t always a case of losing out. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 7 Aug. 2026 Sellers may lose out on a better deal because fewer buyers know their home is available. — Derrick Johnson, Time, 4 Aug. 2026 And when visitors choose to go elsewhere, businesses lose out on billions in valuable spending. — Ray Lahood, Chicago Tribune, 3 Aug. 2026 If Saudi Arabia and other customers of the American defense industry start sourcing their military equipment elsewhere, or making it themselves, the United States will lose out. — Phillips Payson O’Brien, The Atlantic, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lose out

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1858, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lose out was circa 1858

Rhymes for lose out

See All Rhymes for lose out

Browse Nearby Words

lose oneself
lose out
lose patience
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lose out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lose%20out. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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