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/

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:

flop fizzle bomb wash out

Antonym:

succeed pass

neglect to do something; omit

Example:

•

He failed to mention the most important detail.

•

The lights failed to come on.

Synonym:

neglect omit forget miss

Antonym:

remember succeed

cease to function normally

Example:

•

The car's brakes failed.

•

His heart failed during the operation.

Synonym:

break down malfunction conk out give out

Antonym:

function work

an act or instance of failing or proving unsuccessful

Example:

•

The project was a complete fail.

•

He considered his marriage a fail.

Synonym:

fiasco debacle disaster mess

Antonym:

success achievement