Lose somebody/something in the shuffle
phrase
To overlook, forget, or lose track of someone or something in the midst of a busy situation or confusion.
In the chaos of organizing the event, we lost the dietary requirements of some attendees in the shuffle.

Often appears as...
- lose paperwork in the shuffle
- lose track in the shuffle
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To overlook, forget, or lose track of someone or something in the midst of a busy situation or confusion.
In the chaos of organizing the event, we lost the dietary requirements of some attendees in the shuffle.

Often appears as...
- lose paperwork in the shuffle
- lose track in the shuffle
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1

Chaos Implication
This phrase often implies a busy or chaotic environment where something was missed.

During the office relocation, I'm afraid we lost your application in the shuffle.
Not Deliberate
It suggests that missing something was unintentional, not done on purpose.

With so many emails coming in, we didn't mean to lose your message in the shuffle.
Metaphorical Use
The phrase is metaphorical and does not literally refer to shuffling cards or items.

With so many talented artists, it's easy for beginners to get lost in the shuffle.
Chaos Implication
This phrase often implies a busy or chaotic environment where something was missed.

During the office relocation, I'm afraid we lost your application in the shuffle.
Not Deliberate
It suggests that missing something was unintentional, not done on purpose.

With so many emails coming in, we didn't mean to lose your message in the shuffle.
Metaphorical Use
The phrase is metaphorical and does not literally refer to shuffling cards or items.

With so many talented artists, it's easy for beginners to get lost in the shuffle.
Chaos Implication
This phrase often implies a busy or chaotic environment where something was missed.

During the office relocation, I'm afraid we lost your application in the shuffle.
Not Deliberate
It suggests that missing something was unintentional, not done on purpose.

With so many emails coming in, we didn't mean to lose your message in the shuffle.
Metaphorical Use
The phrase is metaphorical and does not literally refer to shuffling cards or items.

With so many talented artists, it's easy for beginners to get lost in the shuffle.
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