missing the mark

/ˈmɪsɪŋ ðə mɑːrk/

failing to achieve a goal or expectation

The new product missed the mark with consumers.

The product failed to meet consumer expectations.

◆ What It Really Means

Failing to meet expectations or achieve a goal.

¶ Literal Meaning

Failing to hit a physical target or mark.

Literal Breakdown

missingnot reaching+the marka target or designated spot

◇ Mental Image

The mental image of an archer failing to hit the bullseye, symbolizing a failure to achieve the intended result.

◈ When to Use

A manager might say, 'The new strategy missed the mark because it didn't address the core issues,' indicating the strategy failed to meet its objectives.

◉ Cultural Note

The phrase is rooted in archery and has been metaphorically extended to various contexts where goals or expectations are not met.

informal

To fail to achieve the intended goal or expectation.

His speech missed the mark and didn't inspire the audience.

The speech failed to motivate or engage the audience.

The marketing campaign missed the mark by targeting the wrong demographic.

The campaign failed to reach the intended audience.

This phrase is often used to criticize a failure to meet expectations.

Collocations

completely miss the markfail entirelywidely miss the markfail to meet broad expectations

Synonyms

fall short fail to hit the target miss the point

Antonyms

hit the mark succeed achieve the goal

Related Phrases

hit the markphrase

to succeed in achieving a goal

miss the boatphrase

to miss an opportunity

Pro Tip

Usage Context

This phrase is versatile and can be used in business, sports, or everyday conversations to describe a failure to meet expectations.

Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

While useful, overusing this phrase can make your language repetitive. Vary your expressions to keep your communication engaging.

Word Origin

The phrase originates from archery, where missing the target mark indicates a failure to hit the intended spot. It has since been extended metaphorically to describe any failure to meet expectations.

Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe a failure to meet goals or expectations.

Word Breakdown

missing

failing to reach or achieve

verb

the mark

the intended goal or target

noun phrase

English Dictionary

さらにEnglish→Englishの単語を閲覧 →