Lost: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when someone is unsure of their direction, either literally or figuratively. It conveys a sense of being unable to find the way or understand what's happening.

• I got lost on my way to the new restaurant.
• After the company restructured, many employees felt lost.

This word is used when someone feels a loss of sense of direction or position, often physically, but can also be mentally. It implies a temporary state of confusion.

• After waking up from the nap, he felt disoriented.
• Traveling to a different time zone always leaves me disoriented.

This word is appropriate when someone is unable to understand or think clearly about something. It is a general term for a lack of clarity.

• I'm confused about the instructions given in the manual.
• His explanation of the rules left everyone confused.

This word is used when someone is extremely confused and puzzled by something unexpected or complex. It has a more intense feeling compared to 'confused'.

• She was bewildered by the sudden change in his behavior.
• The complex instructions left him bewildered.

Use this when something is no longer in your possession and you don't know where it is. It can refer to both physical items and more abstract things.

• I lost my keys
• He felt lost after his friend's departure

This word is used when you temporarily put something in the wrong place and can't find it. It implies a less permanent loss than 'lost'.

• I misplaced my wallet and spent an hour looking for it
• She always misplaces her glasses

This pertains to accidentally letting something fall from your grasp. It often implies an accidental action.

• I dropped my phone, and the screen cracked
• She dropped the glass, and it shattered

This phrase is used in more formal or emotional contexts, often referring to more significant losses, especially those involving people or important things.

• They suffered the loss of a loved one
• The company is suffering the loss of several key employees