Synonyms for

Lapse

Verb / læps / Another word for lapse — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Lapse means a temporary failure or slip in concentration, memory, or judgement.

Synonyms & similar words

oversight retrogress regress pass reversion reverting recidivate relapse slipaway lapsing slideby elapse goby slipby sink goalong backsliding relapsing fallback backslide glideby failure mistake error slip oversight omission blunder fault lack defect decay decline deterioration relapse regression backslide recession slip-up trip-up foul-up

Synonyms by register

Formal

omission default failure interruption

Informal

slip-up mistake blunder goof

Literary

aberration descent fall

Antonyms

continuity continuation perseverance steadfastness constancy persistence

Common collocations

  • lapse in judgment
  • lapse in concentration
  • lapse in memory
  • time lapse
  • lapse into silence
  • lapse into unconsciousness
  • security lapse

Word family

noun lapse
verb lapse

Usage note

As a noun, 'lapse' often refers to a temporary failure or decline. As a verb, it means to fall into an inferior state or to cease to be valid.

Example sentences

  1. I had a lapse of judgement and made a big mistake.
  2. She had a lapse in concentration and forgot where she parked her car.
  3. He experienced a lapse in memory and couldn't remember his own phone number.
  4. The company experienced a lapse in sales due to the economic downturn.
  5. She was worried that her lapse in exercise routine would affect her health.

Quotes

  • One lapse of judgement can ruin a lifetime of hard work. - Unknown
  • A small lapse in judgement can cause a big problem. - Unknown
  • A momentary lapse of reason can be fatal. - Unknown

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