Meaning & Definition of word "Unsuccessful"
Unsuccessful
/ˌʌn.səkˈsɛs.fəl/
adjective:
- 1. Not achieving the desired outcome; failing to attain success.
- Example: After months of trying to launch the product, their efforts were ultimately unsuccessful.
- 2. Not yielding the expected result.
- Example: The team's strategy was unsuccessful in overcoming the challenges posed by the competition.
- 3. Lacking success or favorable results.
- Example: Her attempts to secure funding for the project were unfortunately unsuccessful.
Etymology
●From the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' combined with 'successful' which derives from 'success' + the suffix '-ful'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
a failed attempt:
An effort that did not succeed.
to come up short:
To fail to reach a desired goal or result.
not cut out for:
Unsuitable or unsuited for a particular role or task.
Related Words
success:
The achievement of a goal or purpose.
failure:
Lack of success in achieving a goal.
ineffectiveness:
The quality of not producing the desired effect.
Slang Meanings of unsuccessful
Meaning: A bust
● Example Sentence: The whole venture turned out to be a bust.
Meaning: A flop
● Example Sentence: The movie was a total flop at the box office.