Fail

/fˈe‍ɪl/

/ˈfeɪɫ/

Definition & Meaning of "fail"

to fail

VERB

to be unsuccessful in accomplishing something

Intransitive

Example

Despite their best efforts, the plan failed.

The experiment failed due to unforeseen complications.

to be unsuccessful in an examination or course

Transitive: to fail an examination or course

Example

Despite studying hard, he failed the math test.

I worked extra hours to avoid failing the important project.

to not carry out or fulfill an expected action or responsibility

Transitive: to fail to do sth

Example

She failed to call her friend as promised, leaving him disappointed.

He often fails to submit his assignments on time, frustrating his teachers.

to disappoint or abandon someone by not meeting their expectations or providing support

Transitive: to fail sb

Example

She promised to help but failed her team when the pressure mounted.

The leader vowed never to fail his people, even in the toughest circumstances.

to stop functioning correctly or completely break down

Intransitive

Example

The old car failed on the highway, leaving them stranded.

Her phone failed just when she needed to make an important call.

to be unable to do something or achieve a desired outcome

Transitive: to fail to do sth

Example

She failed to finish the book in time for the discussion.

He failed to meet the deadline despite working overtime.

to lose strength or quality over time, becoming less effective or reliable

Intransitive

Example

Her eyesight began to fail as she grew older.

Over the years, the bridge ’s structural integrity started to fail.

to be inadequate or unavailable when needed or expected

Intransitive

Example

When the wheat crop failed, the village faced a severe food shortage.

As the water supply failed, residents were forced to ration what little they had.

to stop operating or trading due to financial bankruptcy

Intransitive

Example

The company failed after months of declining sales and mounting debts.

Many small businesses fail within their first year of operation.

to determine that someone has not met the required standard in an examination or test

Transitive: to fail a candidate or examinee

Example

The instructor failed half the class for not meeting the minimum requirements.

She was devastated when she learned that the panel had failed her on the driving test.

to not succeed in reaching a desired objective or goal

Intransitive: to fail in an effort

Example

The team failed in their quest for the championship after a narrow defeat.

She failed in her attempt to climb the mountain due to harsh weather.

Fail

NOUN

a mistake or unsuccessful act

Example

The launch of the new product was a major fail due to poor marketing.

Despite his efforts, his attempt to climb the mountain ended in a fail.

a grade below the passing standard, indicating insufficient performance or mastery of the subject matter

What is a "fail"?

A fail refers to a grade given when a student’s performance does not meet the minimum required standards to pass. It indicates that the student has not demonstrated enough understanding or mastery of the subject matter. A failing grade suggests that the student needs to improve their knowledge, skills, or effort in order to meet the expectations of the course or exam.

Example

She received a fail in her final biology exam despite her efforts.

His chemistry paper showed a fail, disappointing him.