lose your touch
Meaning
To stop being as skillful, effective, or successful as you used to be; to no longer have the same knack or finesse.
Origin
From the literal sense of “touch” meaning a skillful hand or knack (especially in arts, crafts, sport). If you “lose” it, your former finesse seems gone.
Notes
Often mildly negative but not harsh; implies former ability and a recent decline, sometimes temporary. Common in arts/sports/work skills; informal to neutral register.
Examples
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I used to bake perfect bread, but lately I feel like I've lost my touch.
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After the long break from piano, she worried she'd lost her touch.
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The team hasn't lost its touch—they just need a little time to warm up.
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He thought he'd lost his touch as a teacher until his students started improving again.
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Since switching to a new software, our designer feels like she's lost her touch.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as “lose my/your/his/her touch” or “have lost my touch.” “Touch” is countable here (a knack). Often with “with + noun” (lose your touch with the piano).
Synonyms
- lose your edge
- get rusty
- be out of practice
- lose your knack
- lose your mojo
Antonyms
- have the knack
- have the touch
- be on top form
- be at the top of your game