missed mark
Failed to hit
Missed mark describes a failure to achieve an intended target or goal.
The phrase comes from archery and marksmanship, where missing the mark means the projectile didn't hit its target.
Figuratively, it applies to any attempt that falls short: The movie's humor missed the mark with audiences.
An argument or criticism that misses the mark fails to address the real issue.
- targetObject of pursuit
- off targetNot hitting intended point
- wideOf great breadth
- way offExtremely inaccurate
- offNot functioning
aim · bad aim · error · shot · arrow · stray · overshoot · undershoot · fell short · close but no cigar · botched · failed · blunder · astray · wayward · swing · goal · misfire
missed markbullseye
Exact center target
hit the mark · dead center · on target · direct hit · spot on
missed marksucceeded
Achieved desired outcome
accomplished · mission accomplished · made it · nailed it · got it right
missed markmade the grade
Achieved required level
passed muster · rose to the occasion · up to snuff · up to par
miss, missed, misses, missing, mark, marks, marked, marking, marker