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

"But if you mess up on track and field, then it all goes away."

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

He started out with some basic tips: Fill the shaker with the least expensive ingredients first, so you don’t waste the expensive stuff if you mess up.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 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

All I needed to do was mess up the perfectly smoothed bedcovers, which I did with a jump.

From "Winger" by Andrew Smith