Failure — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of Failure
Failure (noun)
- omission of occurrence or performance; specifically, a failing to perform a duty or expected action
- a state of inability to perform a normal function
- an abrupt cessation of normal functioning
Failure (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
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the nonperformance of an assigned or expected action
"your failure to check the batteries in the smoke detector could have tragic results"
-
a falling short of one's goals
"the failure of the school's fund-raising drive was a big disappointment to all"
-
something that has failed
"the students' first attempt to build a homemade rocket was a disappointing failure"
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a falling short of an essential or desirable amount or number
"the failure of the potato crop had a devastating effect on the population of Ireland"
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the inability to pay one's debts
"years of prolonged economic depression, when business failures were common"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Failure
The most common words with a similar meaning to Failure:
Antonyms & Opposite Words for Failure
Words with the opposite meaning of Failure:
Near Antonyms of Failure
Origin & Etymology of Failure
alteration of earlier failer, from Anglo-French, from Old French faillir to fail
First known use: 1643
Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Failure
- CEFR level: B1 English Vocabulary — Page 6
- Topics: Feelings & Emotions
Words & Phrases Containing Failure
Frequently Asked Questions about Failure
What does "Failure" mean?
"Failure" means omission of occurrence or performance; specifically, a failing to perform a duty or expected action. As a noun, it is defined as: omission of occurrence or performance; specifically, a failing to perform a duty or expected action. It has 5 distinct senses.
What is another word for "Failure"?
Other words for "Failure" include default, delinquency, dereliction, misprision, neglect, negligence, nonfeasance and oversight. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Failure" you intend.
What are different ways to say "Failure"?
There are 91 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Failure". Common alternatives include default, delinquency, dereliction, misprision, neglect, negligence, nonfeasance, oversight, collapse and crash.
What is the opposite of "Failure"?
Antonyms of "Failure" include accomplishment, achievement, success, blockbuster, hit, smash, winner and abundance. Near antonyms include compliance, discharge, fulfillment and victory.
How do you use "Failure" in a sentence?
Examples of "Failure" in a sentence: "your failure to check the batteries in the smoke detector could have tragic results"; "the failure of the school's fund-raising drive was a big disappointment to all"; "the students' first attempt to build a homemade rocket was a disappointing failure".
Is "Failure" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"Failure" is a noun.
Is "Failure" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?
As a B1-level word, "Failure" is typical of Cambridge B1 Preliminary (PET), IELTS band 4.0–5.0, TOEFL iBT 42–71, PTE Academic 43–58, TOEIC Listening & Reading 550+.
How do you pronounce "Failure"?
"Failure" is pronounced /ˈfāl-yər/ and divided into syllables as fail·ure.