Lose out Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Competition Loss Use 'lose out' when someone doesn't win, especially in situations where there's direct competition. She lost out in the singing contest. Pro Tip 2/3Missed Opportunity 'Lose out' often implies missing a chance that might not come again. If we don't act fast, we'll lose out on the deal. Pro Tip 3/3Personal Regret The phrase suggests personal disappointment from not having achieved or obtained something. He felt he lost out on a childhood by working early.