Unsuccessfully: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when an attempt or effort does not achieve the desired result.

• He tried to open the locked door unsuccessfully
• Despite her hard work, she applied for the job unsuccessfully

Used when describing actions or efforts that don’t produce the desired effect or aren’t efficient.

• She addressed the problem ineffectively, causing more confusion
• The team worked on the project ineffectively, leading to delays

Often used to describe an effort that yields no positive outcome, suggesting a waste of time or resources.

• They searched for the missing key fruitlessly
• He spent the whole day working on the project fruitlessly

Describes a situation where there is little to no useful output or progress.

• He spent the evening unproductively, watching TV instead of studying
• The meeting dragged on unproductively without any concrete decisions

Use this word when an attempt to do something does not achieve the desired result, but without a strong sense of finality.

• He tried to open the jar unsuccessfully.
• She applied for the job but did so unsuccessfully.

This word carries a stronger sense of finality and often implies a significant lack of success. It is commonly used when the outcome is particularly important or impactful.

• He failed to pass the final exam.
• The business venture failed, leading to bankruptcy.

This word is used to describe emotional or personal dissatisfaction due to unmet expectations or goals. It often relates to deeper feelings rather than specific tasks or achievements.

• He felt unfulfilled at his job despite the high salary.
• Her childhood dreams remained unfulfilled.

Use this word to describe someone who has not achieved notable success, usually in a professional or skill-based context. It often has a negative connotation.

• Despite years of training, he remained unaccomplished in his musical career.
• She felt unaccomplished compared to her classmates.