miss the boat / bus

/mˈɪs ðə bˈəʊt bˈʌs/

/mˈɪs ðə bˈoʊt bˈʌs/

[phrase]

to miss the boat / bus

[PHRASE]

to lose the chance to take advantage of something, particularly a good opportunity

to [miss] the (boat|bus) definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "miss the boat" and when to use it?

The idiom "miss the boat" comes from the idea of a boat or ship leaving a dock or port, and someone arriving too late to board it. The idiom can be used in a wide range of situations, from missing a job opportunity to failing to invest in a profitable venture. It is often used to express regret or disappointment at having missed out on something that was potentially valuable or rewarding.

Examples

1. Don't make such a big thing about missing the bus: there'll be another one along in a minute.

2. She missed the bus for the concert tickets, as they sold out within minutes.

3. He has missed the boat for the job offer, as he didn't respond to the email in time.

4. If you don't submit your application soon, you'll miss the boat for the scholarship.

Nearby words