failures - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
failures Word Meanings
- the lack of success in achieving something
- an event or occurrence that does not succeed
- a person or thing that is unsuccessful
failures Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
failures Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfeɪljə/
US
/ˈfeɪljər/
failures Word Etymology
fail (from Latin 'fallere' meaning 'to deceive') + ure (nouns indicating an action or condition) = failure. Originated from Latin to Old French to Middle English. Imagine a person trying to achieve a goal but tripping and falling, causing disappointment.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Hands steady, I set my sight and push off toward the basket. The ball sails and falls short, and I feel the weight of the miss tugging at my chest with a quiet pull. I adjust my stance, shift my grip, and try again, keeping the effort taut as the clock ticks. The second shot spins and clanks, not quite there, and the word failure slips into my mind, nudging me to practice rather than quit.
Real Context
Failure is a noun that denotes the absence of success in reaching a goal, an outcome that did not go as planned, or a person or thing that falls short. In everyday use, we say someone experienced a failure when a project misses its deadline, a test yields a low score, or a business idea collapses. The word often carries a negative tone, but it also signals information for growth: analyze what went wrong, adjust your approach, and try again. Learners should distinguish failure from mistakes (brief errors) or defeat (a stronger emotional setback), since failure can describe a state or a sequence of events rather than a single action.
Usage Reminders
- Collocations: fail to + verb, failure to meet a deadline, mere vs complete failure, use with adjectives like minor/major, discuss as a learning opportunity, avoid blaming people, compare with defeat/mistake.
Common Misconceptions
- Failure means you are a bad person
- Failure only happens with big goals
- If you fail once, you will fail forever
- Failure is permanent and irreversible
- Failure and defeat are the same
Thinking Differences
In English, failure is a common formal noun used across many contexts, often treated as a temporary setback to be overcome. Learners should be careful not to imply moral judgment and should differentiate it from defeat or a simple mistake.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations with failure and fail, such as failed attempt and failure to meet a deadline
- Compare failure with mistake and defeat to avoid false friends
- Practice describing failures as learning experiences
- Use passive constructions: was considered a failure / was labeled a failure
- Record your own failures and what you learned from them
- Read news or stories about failures that led to innovations
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'failures'?
A.The act of succeeding at something
B.A type of fruit
C.The lack of success in achieving a goal
D.A successful outcome
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'failures' correctly?
A.He experienced several failures during his cooking class.
B.The successes were overwhelming in the project.
C.Her failures were a source of pride for her.
D.There were many failures in the math test.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'failures'?
A.Achievements
B.Victories
C.Shortcomings
D.Goals
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'failures'?
A.Mistakes
B.Successes
C.Struggles
D.Problems
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of learning from mistakes?
A.Winning a game can be very rewarding
B.A student learns from mistakes when studying for exams
C.A professional athlete often celebrates championships
D.Finding solutions to problems is essential
Related Listening
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