The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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lapse

noun

/laps/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of lapse

A temporary failure, error, or deviation from a particular standard, state, or course of action.
"The driver's lapse in judgment caused the accident."

Detailed meaning of lapse

A lapse can occur when someone unintentionally makes a mistake or neglects their responsibilities for a brief period. It signifies a momentary interruption or break in continuity, often due to forgetfulness, distraction, or inattention. Lapses can take various forms, such as a mental lapse, where someone briefly forgets something, or a lapse in judgment, where someone makes an uncharacteristic mistake. In a broader context, "lapse" can also refer to the expiration of a period of time, a legal or contractual term, or a deterioration of a situation. Overall, a lapse represents a temporary deviation from an established norm or expected behavior, highlighting the need for vigilance and correction when such interruptions occur.

Example sentences containing lapse

1. His lapse in concentration caused him to make a mistake on the test.
2. The organization's lapse in oversight allowed for the misuse of funds.
3. The team's lapse in performance cost them the game.
4. The politician's lapse in ethics resulted in scandal.
5. The athlete's lapse in training resulted in a poor performance.
6. The scientist's lapse in methodology invalidated the research.

History and etymology of lapse

The noun 'lapse' has an etymology that connects it to the idea of slipping or falling away. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'lapsus,' which is the past participle of 'labi,' meaning 'to slip' or 'to slide.' In its literal sense, 'lapse' originally referred to a physical slipping or falling, but over time, it evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings. In its current usage, 'lapse' refers to a temporary failure, error, or deviation from a particular standard, state, or course of action. This etymology vividly captures the concept of something momentarily falling out of place or deviating from the expected path, highlighting the transient and often correctable nature of a lapse.

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Further usage examples of lapse

1. The teacher's lapse in attention allowed the students to misbehave.
2. The country's lapse in disaster preparedness led to widespread destruction.
3. The company's lapse in customer service resulted in complaints.
4. His lapse in memory caused him to forget important details.
5. The company's lapse in security measures allowed hackers to gain access to sensitive information.
6. The brief lapse in concentration led to a critical error.
7. A momentary lapse in judgment can have lasting consequences.
8. She regretted the lapse in communication that caused the misunderstanding.
9. The company's financial troubles were attributed to a significant lapse.
10. After a long period of discipline, he experienced a dietary lapse.
11. The athlete's performance suffered due to a momentary lapse of focus.
12. A lapse in memory caused him to forget the important appointment.
13. The security breach was a result of a significant lapse in protocols.
14. A lapse in ethics tarnished the reputation of the once-respected firm.
15. The project timeline faced a significant lapse due to unforeseen delays.
16. He acknowledged the lapse in professionalism and apologized.
17. The brief lapse in vigilance allowed the intruder to enter unnoticed.
18. A lapse in commitment hindered her progress toward her goals.
19. The lapse in quality control led to a defective product.
20. The organization experienced a lapse in leadership during the crisis.
21. A lapse in judgment caused him to make a regrettable decision.
22. The lapse in maintenance led to the equipment's malfunction.
23. The temporary lapse in weather conditions disrupted travel plans.
24. Her lapse in attendance resulted in missed opportunities.
25. The lapse in decorum at the formal event was unexpected.