The idiom "lose sleep over" is used to describe an issue or worry that causes one to lose sleep. The spelling of "lose" (l-o-s-e) may be confusing as it is pronounced differently from "loose" (l-o-o-s-e). In IPA transcription, "lose" is pronounced /luːz/ while "loose" is pronounced /luːs/. This difference in pronunciation can be remembered by the "oo" in "loose" indicating an open mouth while in "lose" the "o" indicating a more closed mouth position.
To "lose sleep over" is an idiomatic expression that implies experiencing anxiety, worry, or concern over a particular issue, problem, or situation. The phrase suggests that the person is so preoccupied with thoughts related to the matter at hand that it disrupts their regular sleep patterns, causing them to have difficulty falling asleep or waking up in the middle of the night due to racing thoughts.
When someone "loses sleep over" something, it signifies a level of distress or emotional investment in the subject matter, indicating that it has become a significant source of mental or emotional burden. The expression is often used to emphasize the intensity of a person's concern about a particular issue, demonstrating that it occupies a significant portion of their thoughts and affects their overall well-being.
The phrase "lose sleep over" is frequently utilized in situations where there is a perceived problem or uncertainty for which the person has limited control or ability to resolve. It highlights the person's emotional response to the situation rather than focusing on practical problem-solving. Common examples that may cause individuals to "lose sleep over" include personal dilemmas, work-related stress, relationship issues, financial concerns, or health worries. The phrase can also be used to describe the act of excessively worrying about future events or potential outcomes.