Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Losing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

😞
Add to dictionary

losing

[ˈluːzɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

experiencing loss

Losing refers to the act of no longer having something, whether it be a physical item, a game, or even a relationship. It can indicate the defeat in a competitive scenario or the sadness that comes from parting with someone or something dear. The emotional impact of losing can vary greatly based on the context and what is at stake. It can lead to feelings of disappointment, grief, or frustration, but can also serve as a motivational force for improvement.

Synonyms

defeating, forfeiting, missing, surrendering.

Examples of usage

  • He is losing his patience with the slow project.
  • She hates losing games to her brother.
  • They are worried about losing their home.
  • The team is on the verge of losing the championship.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Experiencing losing can trigger feelings of sadness or disappointment, but it can also promote resilience and personal growth.
  • People often react differently to losing; some may feel motivated to improve, while others can struggle with low self-esteem.
  • The fear of losing is a powerful emotion that can lead to anxiety, influencing decisions in both personal and professional lives.

Sports

  • In competitive sports, the experience of losing is common and can teach valuable lessons about teamwork and strategy.
  • Famous athletes often discuss how their toughest losses spurred them to greater successes later in their careers.
  • Certain sports have rituals for dealing with losing, like shaking hands with the winner, which promotes sportsmanship.

Literature

  • Many literary works explore the theme of losing, whether it's a battle, a relationship, or personal dreams, highlighting human vulnerability.
  • Classic stories often depict the protagonist facing loss, reflecting the journey towards acceptance and growth.
  • The concept of losing is frequently tied to redemption arcs, where characters must confront their failures to grow stronger.

Culture

  • Culturally, losing is seen in various light, with some societies viewing it as an opportunity for growth, while others may stigmatize failure.
  • Movies and books often portray characters overcoming the stigma of losing, inspiring viewers to embrace their setbacks.
  • In many cultures, traditional games and rituals include elements of losing as a way to teach humility and resilience.

Economics

  • In economics, losing can refer to financial losses, emphasizing the importance of risk management in investments.
  • Market theories suggest that the fear of losing money can often lead to conservative choices that limit potential growth.
  • Businesses often analyze losses to adapt their strategies, highlighting how losing can provide critical information for future success.

Origin of 'losing'

The word 'losing' is derived from the Old English word 'losian', which means 'to be lost' or 'to perish'. This can be traced back to Proto-Germanic origins, specifically the term '*lausijan', which conveyed a sense of losing or becoming lost. The evolution of the word has seen it being used in various forms across Middle English, taking on the modern form we know today during the late Middle Ages. 'Losing' captures both the action of loss and the emotional response associated with it, making it a versatile term in the English language that can apply to numerous situations, from trivial everyday losses to significant life-changing events.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,902, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.