Fail: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something does not succeed or meet expectations. Usually, it refers to an unsuccessful attempt.

• She studied hard but still failed the exam
• The project failed due to a lack of funding

Commonly used in competitive settings such as sports, games, or battles, indicating that one party has been overcome by another.

• The team suffered a crushing defeat in the final game
• No one expected their defeat in the championship

Used to indicate the fact of no longer having something or someone, can be used in financial, personal, or emotional contexts.

• The company reported a significant financial loss this quarter
• She felt a deep sense of loss after her dog passed away

Describes a temporary delay or problem that hinders progress. It implies that the situation can be overcome with time or effort.

• They experienced a setback when their funding was cut, but they are still hopeful
• Despite the setback, he continued working towards his goal

Implying a complete and humiliating failure, often chaotic or absurdly unsuccessful. It has a somewhat negative and dramatic connotation.

• The event turned into a fiasco when the keynote speaker didn't show up
• Their last product launch was a total fiasco

Refers to feelings of sadness or displeasure when expectations are not met. It focuses more on the emotional response than the event itself.

• Her failure to get the promotion was a big disappointment
• There was a sense of disappointment when the concert was canceled

Use when something has not achieved its intended purpose, often with a sense of finality or setback.

• The project failed because of poor planning
• He failed the exam despite studying hard

Use to describe a failed attempt, often formally or in written reports.

• The operation was unsuccessful and further treatment is needed
• All their attempts to contact him were unsuccessful

Use when something does not meet expectations or a set standard, often in a measurable way.

• The results fell short of our expectations
• Their performance fell short compared to last year

Use when making a general statement about something not achieving its goal, often more formal or neutral.

• Despite all efforts, the experiment did not succeed
• The plan did not succeed due to unforeseen obstacles

Use when the intended target or goal is not hit, often in a figurative sense.

• The advertisement missed the mark with younger audiences
• His argument missed the mark and didn't convince anyone

Use when making a good effort but just not reaching the goal, often implying an attempt was made.

• The team came up short in the final minutes of the game
• She tried her best but came up short of the required score