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Lost in the shuffle Meaning in English

expression

ˈɫɔst/ /ˈɪn/, /ɪn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈʃəfəɫ
LAWST in thuh SHUH-fuhl
lˈɒst/ /ˈɪn/ /ðə, ði/ /ʃˈʌfəl
LOST in thuh SHUF-ul

Definition

If someone or something is 'lost in the shuffle', they are overlooked or forgotten because there is too much activity, confusion, or too many people.

Usage & Nuances

Informal idiom. Often used in workplaces, schools, or social situations when people or things are overlooked due to chaos or too many details. Common with phrases like 'kids can get lost in the shuffle' or 'your request was lost in the shuffle'. Not literal—refers to being unintentionally ignored.

Example Sentences

When there are too many students in class, some may feel lost in the shuffle.

basic

My email got lost in the shuffle, so I didn't get an answer.

basic

Sometimes important information gets lost in the shuffle during busy times.

basic

With so many team members now, it's easy for your ideas to get lost in the shuffle if you don't speak up.

natural

I tried to help, but my efforts were lost in the shuffle during the big event.

natural

Don't let your application get lost in the shuffle—follow up if you don't hear back.

natural