Successful person Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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successful person

[səkˈsɛsfʊl ˈpɜːrsən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

achieving goals

A successful person is someone who has achieved their desired objectives or attained a high level of accomplishment in their endeavors. They are often characterized by their ability to overcome challenges, demonstrate resilience, and show determination in pursuing their goals.

Synonyms

achiever, high achiever, winner.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
successful person	A 'successful person' is generally used to describe someone who has achieved success in various aspects of life such as career, personal life, or both. It is a broad term and can be used in neutral or positive contexts. She is a successful person in both her career and personal life. Being a successful person often requires dedication and hard work.
achiever	An 'achiever' focuses on someone who sets goals and meets them. It is often used in professional or academic contexts and usually carries a positive connotation. He is a high achiever in school, always getting the top grades. The company rewards achievers who consistently meet their targets.
winner	A 'winner' typically refers to someone who comes first in a competition, game, or contest. It can also be used more broadly to describe someone who is generally successful. This term is positive but can carry a slightly competitive undertone. He was the winner of the tennis tournament. In life, she always comes out as a winner, no matter the situation.
high achiever	A 'high achiever' specifically refers to someone who achieves a lot often exceeding the average. This term is often used in educational, professional, or athletic contexts and is highly positive. Schools often have special programs for high achievers. She is a high achiever, always pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Examples of usage

She is a successful person who started her own business from scratch.
Becoming a successful person requires hard work and dedication.
A successful person is not afraid to take risks to achieve their dreams.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

social status

In social terms, a successful person is often seen as someone who has attained wealth, fame, or recognition for their achievements. They may be influential in their field and respected by others for their accomplishments.

Synonyms

big shot, high-flyer, mover and shaker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
successful person	This phrase is neutral and suitable for general situations where you want to describe someone who has achieved success in their field without any extra connotations. It's appropriate for professional, formal, and casual settings. She is a successful person who has built a thriving business. He's always been a successful person in his career.
high-flyer	This term is also often used in a professional context to describe someone who is very ambitious and is achieving or is expected to achieve significant success. It implies a rapid rise or high potential. He's a high-flyer in the financial industry, expected to become a top executive soon. They are looking for high-flyers who can bring fresh ideas to the company.
mover and shaker	This phrase is used to describe someone who is very influential and active in their field, often in a dynamic and impactful way. It has a positive connotation and is suitable for both professional and casual contexts. She’s one of the movers and shakers in the tech industry, always setting new trends. He’s become a mover and shaker in local politics, driving major changes.
big shot	This term is often used in informal or conversational contexts and can carry a slightly boastful or sometimes sarcastic tone. It's typically used to describe someone who has a lot of power or influence. Look at him, acting like a big shot now that he's got a promotion. She's the big shot in the company and makes all the important decisions.

Examples of usage

He is considered a successful person in his community due to his philanthropic work.
Success is not just about material wealth; a successful person can also be defined by their impact on society.
A successful person is someone who uses their influence for the greater good.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

Studies show that successful individuals often practice a growth mindset, believing they can learn and improve through effort.
Research indicates that resilience, or the ability to bounce back from failure, is a key trait among successful people.
Many successful individuals set clear, achievable goals and break them down into smaller steps, making progress more manageable.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, success is tied to community impact, where helping others is seen as a significant measure of one’s achievements.
In some societies, success is defined not just by wealth but by the balance of personal happiness and contributions to the family and community.
Historically, figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela are celebrated as successful due to their profound influence and dedication to social change, rather than material gains.

Business and Innovation

Successful entrepreneurs often emphasize creativity and adaptability, allowing them to navigate changing market conditions.
Many successful companies foster a culture of innovation, encouraging employees to think outside the box and take calculated risks.
Networking and building positive relationships are critical for professional success, as referrals and collaborations often lead to new opportunities.

Literature

Numerous literary works explore definitions of success, often presenting complex characters who must confront their values and definitions of achievement.
Self-help books abound that detail habits of successful people, emphasizing discipline, time management, and self-motivation.
Biographies of renowned figures often illustrate diverse paths to success, highlighting that there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

Education

Educational attainment is often correlated with success, as various studies highlight that those with higher degrees tend to have better job prospects.
Lifelong learning and continuous education are seen as crucial traits among successful individuals, demonstrating a commitment to personal growth.
Mentorship is vital; many successful individuals credit their achievements to finding someone who guided them along their journey.

Origin of 'successful person'

The term 'successful person' originated from the combination of 'successful', meaning accomplishing an aim or purpose, and 'person', referring to an individual. The concept of success has evolved over time, influenced by societal norms, cultural beliefs, and personal aspirations. In modern society, a successful person is often admired for their achievements and celebrated for their contributions to various fields.