Muffed

To muff something means to handle or perform it badly, usually through clumsiness, carelessness, or a lack of skill, resulting in a failure. It implies a missed opportunity, a spoiled chance, or an imperfect execution of a task. The term often applies to actions requiring physical dexterity, but can be used more broadly to encompass mistakes in various contexts, such as a speech, an argument, or even a strategic plan. It suggests a failure to achieve a desired outcome, often where success was anticipated or expected.

Muffed meaning with examples

• The outfielder muffed the easy catch, allowing the runner to advance to second base and ruining the pitcher's attempt at a no-hitter. He was clearly focused on the crowd, and didn't get into position in time. The manager replaced him immediately.
• The nervous pianist muffed the final note of the piece, a dissonant clash that shattered the delicate atmosphere he had painstakingly created throughout the performance. Sadly, nerves got the best of him at the end of the recital.
• The CEO muffed his opening statement, stumbling over his words and losing the thread of his argument, severely undermining the company's planned marketing campaign to the gathered audience. The stock price plummeted.
• During the debate, the politician muffed the chance to counter the opponent's attack by failing to deliver his planned response, thus opening the door for more criticism later. The audience was left disappointed.