Meaning of the word lapses in English
What does lapses mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
lapses
US /ˈlæpsɪz/
UK /ˈlæpsɪz/
Noun
1.
a temporary failure of concentration, memory, or judgment
Example:
•
He attributed the error to a momentary lapse in concentration.
•
The security breach was due to a serious lapse in protocol.
2.
a period of time that passes; an interval
Example:
•
After a long lapse, they finally met again.
•
There was a brief lapse in the conversation.
3.
the termination of a right or privilege through disuse or failure to follow appropriate procedures
Example:
•
The insurance policy went into lapse due to unpaid premiums.
•
His membership lapsed after he failed to renew it.
Verb
1.
to cease to maintain (a right or privilege)
Example:
•
If you don't pay the premium, your policy will lapse.
•
His good habits began to lapse after he moved.
2.
to revert to an earlier state or a lower standard
Example:
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After a period of improvement, the patient's condition began to lapse.
•
He was careful not to let his standards lapse.