mess up

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When she asks me to place a hand on my heart again, I do, repeating, “I am here. I did not mess up my kid forever. My timing is impeccable.”

From Slate • May 10, 2026

Bowens worries that some people will fraudulently overstate deductions and that people who mess up accidentally could get hurt as the IRS tries to enforce the law.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

“I know if I mess up an assignment or I’m running too slow I’ll hear about it from Jack. Knowing how good he is pushes me to be better.”

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 29, 2025

"It's symbolic now. It's reminder that you can mess up but you can always move forward," he said.

From BBC • Jun. 29, 2025

I watched her through the mirror, the tip of her tongue sticking out of her mouth, concentrating, weaving the hair slowly, trying her best not to mess up.

From "Patina" by Jason Reynolds