English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word fail in English

What does fail mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

fail

US /feɪl/
UK /feɪl/
"fail" picture

Verb

1.

be unsuccessful in achieving one's goal

Example:
•
He tried his best, but he still failed the exam.
•
The company failed to meet its sales targets.
Synonym:
flopfizzlebombwash out
Synonym:
succeedpass
2.

neglect to do something; omit

Example:
•
He failed to mention the most important detail.
•
The lights failed to come on.
Synonym:
neglectomitforgetmiss
Synonym:
remembersucceed
3.

cease to function normally

Example:
•
The car's brakes failed.
•
His heart failed during the operation.
Synonym:
break downmalfunctionconk outgive out
Synonym:
functionwork

Noun

1.

an act or instance of failing or proving unsuccessful

Example:
•
The project was a complete fail.
•
He considered his marriage a fail.
Synonym:
fiascodebacledisastermess
Synonym:
successachievement
Learn This Word at Lingoland
Related Word:
failedfailingpass-fail