Synonyms for

Fails

Verb / feɪlz / Another word for fails — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To not succeed in achieving one's goal or purpose

Synonyms & similar words

giveout neglect giveway pass break succeed die manage betray breakdown bomb runout gobad flushit gowrong miscarry conkout go fail flunk flunks loses misses falters stumbles miscarries bombs chokes crashes

Synonyms by register

Formal

flounders struggles falls short is unsuccessful

Informal

bombs crashes messes up falls flat

Literary

falters wanes perishes

Antonyms

succeeds triumphs prevails achieves wins prospers

Common collocations

  • fails to meet
  • fails to deliver
  • fails to understand
  • fails to impress
  • fails the test
  • fails to launch
  • fails to respond

Word family

noun failure
verb fail
adjective failing

Usage note

The verb 'fail' can be used in many contexts, from academic performance to mechanical malfunction. Be mindful of the specific context to choose the most appropriate synonym.

Example sentences

  1. She fails the test because she did not study.
  2. The athlete fails to break the record.
  3. He fails to complete the task on time.
  4. The plan fails due to lack of funding.
  5. The company fails to meet its sales target.

Quotes

  • Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. - Winston Churchill
  • Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently. - Henry Ford
  • I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work. - Thomas Edison

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