Lapse: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a temporary lack of attention or a small mistake, often in behavior or judgment.

• She had a momentary lapse in concentration and missed the turn
• His lapse in judgment cost him the promotion

Used to describe the lack of success in achieving a goal or the malfunctioning of an item. Often has a negative connotation.

• The mission was deemed a failure due to unforeseen complications
• His repeated failures to meet deadlines worried his boss

Refers to minor or slight mistakes, often related to informal or fleeting actions. The connotation is generally less severe than that of 'error' or 'failure'.

• He made a slip of the tongue during his speech
• It was just a slip; he didn't mean to say that

Generally used to refer to mistakes in facts, calculations, or actions. Can be used in both everyday and technical contexts.

• There was an error in the report that needed correction
• The software had a serious error that caused it to crash

This word is often used when there is a temporary failure or gap in judgment, memory, or behavior. It indicates a brief or minor failure.

• She had a lapse in memory and forgot the meeting.
• There was a brief lapse in security, but no harm was done.

This word is typically used in formal situations to describe the end of something, such as a contract, employment, or process. It implies a definitive end.

• The contract will be subjected to termination if either party fails to comply with the terms.
• He faced termination from his job after multiple warnings.

This word is most commonly used to describe the end of a period during which something is valid, such as a contract, document, or product. It means that the time limit for something has ended.

• The expiration date on the milk was yesterday.
• Check the expiration of your driver’s license to ensure it is still valid.

Forfeiture is used when there is a loss or giving up of something, usually as a consequence of a rule or law being broken. This word has a negative connotation.

• His criminal activity resulted in the forfeiture of his assets.
• Failure to meet the terms of the agreement may result in forfeiture of the deposit.

Appropriate in contexts where there's a temporary failure or a brief break in continuity. It implies a drop in performance or attention, often for a short time.

• He had a momentary lapse in concentration during the meeting.
• Her memory lapse caused her to forget the appointment.

Used in situations describing a gradual decrease in quality, quantity, or importance. Often used when talking about health, economy, or social conditions.

• There has been a steady decline in the nation's manufacturing sector.
• His health has been in decline since last year.

Fits contexts where something is reducing in size, importance, or intensity. It often expresses reduction in value or strength.

• Her enthusiasm for the project diminished over time.
• The star’s brightness seems to diminish as the night goes on.

Appropriate when discussing a reduction in strength, energy, or effectiveness. Often used in health, strategic, or structural contexts.

• The illness weakened his immune system.
• Lack of support is starting to weaken her resolve.