failure
word
/ˈfeɪɫjɝ/
FAYL-yur
/fˈeɪliə/
FAYL-yuh
Definition
A failure is a lack of success in doing something or reaching a goal. It can also mean a person, plan, or machine that does not work as intended.
Usage & Nuances
Most often used for lack of success: 'business failure', 'test failure', 'failure to respond'. In technical or medical contexts, it can mean a breakdown or loss of function, as in 'engine failure' or 'heart failure'. Calling a person 'a failure' is strong and often hurtful.
Spanish: fracaso - fallaPortuguese (BR): fracasso - falhaPortuguese (PT): fracasso - falhaChinese (Simplified): 失败 - 故障Chinese (Traditional): 失敗 - 故障Hindi: असफलता - विफलताArabic: فشل - إخفاقBengali: ব্যর্থতাRussian: неудача - провал - отказ (технический)Japanese: 失敗Vietnamese: thất bạiKorean: 실패Turkish: başarısızlık - arıza (teknik)Urdu: ناکامی - فیلئر (تکنیکی)Indonesian: kegagalan
Example Sentences
The power failure lasted two hours.
basic
The project was a failure.
basic
The test failure surprised everyone.
basic
He saw the startup's failure as a chance to learn.
natural
The plan wasn't a total failure, but it didn't really work.
natural
After the engine failure, we had to stop on the highway.
natural