Definition of the term missing the boat

This expression is used when a person has the opportunity to take advantage of a great opportunity but fails to do so and later regrets that. Missing the boat can also refer to failing to understand something.

Examples of missing the boat in a sentence

“I had the opportunity to invest in the first seed round but I didn’t do it. Now the project is very big and I could have made millions. Man have I missed the boat on that one!”

“He was talking about that project like he knows all the details but it was obvious he missed the boat as he had all the details mixed up.”

Where did Miss the boat come from

The origin of this expression is rather obvious, it originally referred to people actually missing a boat or ship. It was first used in the 18th century when people would be late for a scheduled journey. Throughout the years missing the boat was started to get used for far more situations when people miss out on something. The phrase was also used together with “that ship has sailed” a lot.