1. to lose an opportunity that could lead to success.

He thinks we're missing the boat on improving relations with Russia.

2. to not understand the importance of something.

I believe that people who think this issue is simply going to disappear have missed the boat.

• jump at
• jump at something
• jump bail
• jump down someone's throat
• jump down throat
• jump for joy
• jump in
• jump in at the deep end
• jump in with both feet
• jump on the bandwagon
• jump out of the frying pan and into the fire
• jump out of the frying pan into the fire
• jump ship
• jump the gun
• jump the queue
• jump through hoops
• jump to conclusions
• jury is out
• jury is still out
• just a minute
• just a moment
• just another day
• just another day at the office
• just a second
• just between you and me