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Lapse: meaning, definitions and examples

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lapse

 

[ læps ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

time

a temporary failure or decline in performance; a slip or error

Synonyms

error, failure, slip

Examples of usage

  • After a brief lapse in concentration, she regained her focus and continued working.
  • The company experienced a lapse in sales due to the economic downturn.
Context #2 | Noun

law

the termination of a right or privilege through disuse, neglect, or failure to meet a deadline

Synonyms

expiration, forfeiture, termination

Examples of usage

  • The insurance policy lapsed after the premium was not paid on time.
  • The contract had a clause specifying what would happen in case of a lapse in payment.
Context #3 | Verb

time

to come to an end; to fall into a specified state, typically one that is less desirable

Synonyms

decline, diminish, weaken

Examples of usage

  • His attention to detail began to lapse as the project deadline approached.
  • She felt her energy levels lapse after a long day at work.

Translations

Translations of the word "lapse" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lapso

🇮🇳 चूक

🇩🇪 Fehler

🇮🇩 kekhilafan

🇺🇦 помилка

🇵🇱 błąd

🇯🇵 過失 (かしつ, kashitsu)

🇫🇷 erreur

🇪🇸 error

🇹🇷 hata

🇰🇷 실수 (sil-su)

🇸🇦 خطأ (khaṭā')

🇨🇿 chyba

🇸🇰 chyba

🇨🇳 错误 (cuòwù)

🇸🇮 napaka

🇮🇸 villa

🇰🇿 қате

🇬🇪 შეცდომა (shecdoma)

🇦🇿 səhv

🇲🇽 error

Etymology

The word 'lapse' originated in the late 16th century from the Latin word 'lapsus', which means 'a falling or slipping'. Over time, the word evolved to encompass various meanings related to failure, termination, and decline. In modern usage, 'lapse' is commonly used in contexts related to time, law, and personal performance.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,639 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.