1. FOMO (noun) - The fear of missing out on a rewarding or enjoyable experience that others are having.
2. FOMO (noun) - A social anxiety stemming from the perception that others are experiencing more exciting or fulfilling activities.
FOMO stands for "Fear Of Missing Out," a term that captures the anxiety of being left out of exciting events or experiences others are having. Beyond that, it can also describe a broader unease about missing opportunities in life or work. "FOMO" is often linked to compulsive behaviors, such as excessive checking of social media, in an attempt to stay updated on events and trends. Marketers use "FOMO" to create urgency by highlighting scarcity, limited‑time offers, or exclusive access. Learn more about "FOMO" and see how recognizing it can help you make calmer choices.
"FOMO" is a term that encapsulates the fear of being left out of exciting experiences. It is commonly associated with social media and digital connectivity.
The most common definition of "FOMO" is the apprehension that others might be having enjoyable experiences from which one is absent.
In psychological terms, "FOMO" refers to the distress caused by the fear of exclusion or being left behind in social interactions or experiences.
"FOMO" is a noun and is commonly used in informal speech and writing. It functions as a singular noun that describes a psychological or social phenomenon, often associated with digital culture. While primarily a noun, it is sometimes used colloquially in verb form, such as "FOMO-ing," though this usage is nonstandard. The word does not have an official verb or adjective form, but some people informally describe experiences as "FOMO-inducing." Its flexibility in informal usage allows it to be applied creatively in various contexts.
The word "FOMO" is pronounced as "FOH-moh." It has two syllables, with the emphasis placed on the first syllable. The first part, "foh," sounds like the word "foe." The second syllable, "moh," rhymes with the word "moe," like the name Moe. When saying "FOMO," make sure to give a clear emphasis on the "FOH" sound while keeping the "moh" softer but still distinct.
Phonetic Pronunciation: /ˈfoʊ.moʊ/
Several words and phrases capture the essence of "FOMO."
Opposite concepts of "FOMO" focus on contentment and presence in the moment.
Here are ten examples demonstrating the use of "FOMO" in different contexts.
FOMO’s frequency has spiked in recent years, especially with the rise of social media and digital culture. Tools like Google’s Ngram Viewer show its usage exploding after 2010, as it became a buzzword in articles, blogs, and everyday chat. Its presence is strongest in informal contexts, reflecting how often we grapple with comparison in a connected world.
There are a few variations of "FOMO" that have emerged over time.
These terms share similarities with "FOMO."
"FOMO" first appeared in 2004 in an article by Patrick McGinnis for the Harvard Business School magazine Harbus, where he described classmates’ constant rush to attend every event. Its letters combine "fear," "of," "missing," and "out," mirroring earlier acronym coins like "YOLO." Within five years, it migrated from campus slang to mainstream media reports about social networking habits. Dictionaries added the term in the mid‑2010s, cementing its place in modern English.
Here are some words derived from "FOMO."
These are common misspellings of "FOMO."
These idioms relate to the fear of missing out.
Below are ten common questions about "FOMO."
1. What does "FOMO" stand for?
"FOMO" stands for "Fear of Missing Out."
2. How does "FOMO" affect mental health?
"FOMO" can contribute to anxiety, stress, and dissatisfaction with one’s own experiences.
3. Why is "FOMO" common in the digital age?
Social media amplifies "FOMO" by constantly displaying curated highlights of others’ lives.
4. How can someone manage "FOMO"?
Managing "FOMO" involves mindfulness, limiting social media exposure, and focusing on personal fulfillment.
5. Is "FOMO" a real psychological condition?
While not a clinical diagnosis, "FOMO" is a recognized social and psychological phenomenon.
6. Can "FOMO" influence financial decisions?
Yes, "FOMO" can lead to impulsive spending on experiences or products to avoid feeling left out.
7. What is the opposite of "FOMO"?
The opposite of "FOMO" is "JOMO," or the "Joy of Missing Out."
8. How does marketing use "FOMO"?
Marketing leverages "FOMO" by creating urgency and exclusivity in advertising.
9. Does everyone experience "FOMO"?
Most people experience "FOMO" at some point, but its intensity varies based on personality and lifestyle.
10. Can "FOMO" be beneficial?
In moderation, "FOMO" can motivate people to try new things and stay socially connected.
The term "FOMO" refers to the fear of missing out on rewarding or enjoyable experiences that others are having, often driven by social media and digital culture. It plays a significant role in shaping modern behaviors, influencing decision-making, social interactions, and consumer habits. Whether in social settings, financial decisions, or personal fulfillment, acknowledging and addressing "FOMO" can lead to a more balanced lifestyle.
