Meaning & Definition of word "Amiss"

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    Amiss

    /əˈmɪs/

    adjective:

    • 1. Not quite right; inappropriate or out of place.
      • Example: Something feels amiss in this situation; I can't quite put my finger on it.
    • 2. Wrong; faulty.
      • Example: The equipment was working fine until something went amiss.

    adverb:

    • 1. In a mistaken or faulty way.
      • Example: He must have interpreted the instructions amiss, as he took the wrong turn.
    • 2. Wrongly.
      • Example: I've done it amiss, and now I need to start over.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from the phrase 'a miss', meaning 'amiss' or 'at a loss'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    Something is amiss:

    There is something wrong or not as it should be.

    Amiss in the works:

    Indicating that there are issues in the process or plan.

    Related Words

    miss:

    To fail to hit, reach, or come in contact with.

    mistake:

    An action or judgment that is misguided or wrong.

    Slang Meanings of amiss

    Meaning: Off base

    Example Sentence: Her initial thought was way off base; something was definitely amiss.

    Meaning: Out of whack

    Example Sentence: When the machine isn't working right, you know something is out of whack.