unsuccessful - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
unsuccessful Word Meanings
- not achieving the intended result
- not successful in a particular effort or venture
- describing something that fails to produce the desired outcome; can apply to plans, projects, or outcomes
unsuccessful Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
unsuccessful Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ʌn.səˈsɛs.fəl/
US
/ˌʌn.səˈsɛs.fəl/
unsuccessful Word Etymology
Root decomposition: the prefix un- negates the base word; successful is formed from the root success plus the suffix -ful. Historical origin: success comes from Latin successus via Old French succès, English later deriving successful from success + -ful; un- is from Old English as a negating prefix. Memory image: imagine a finish-line banner reading SUCCESS; a gust of wind tears it away and a new banner reads UN-SUCCESSFUL to remind you of the negation.
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 InputReal Context
Unsuccessful is an adjective used for outcomes that did not reach the planned goal. It can describe a particular effort that failed, a project that did not meet its targets, or a result that fell short of expectations. The word emphasizes the lack of success rather than the overall quality of the person or process. It often appears in phrases like an unsuccessful attempt, an unsuccessful campaign, or an unsuccessful outcome. Learners should note that the word pairs with success, not with failure as a general mood, and it contrasts with partially successful or largely successful in more nuanced contexts.
Usage Reminders
- Use unsuccessful for outcomes that did not reach a goal
- Pair with phrases like unsuccessful attempt or unsuccessful outcome
- Contrast with successful, partially successful, or largely successful for nuance
- Keep tone neutral; avoid moral judgment about people
- Prefer it for single events or plans rather than broad character judgments
Common Misconceptions
- Unsuccessful always means a person is morally weak or lazy
- It can only describe people, not things or results
- If something is close to the goal, it isn’t unsuccessful
- It is the exact opposite of successful in every context
- It implies the thing is completely useless
Thinking Differences
In English, you attach un- directly to an adjective to negate it, so unsuccessful focuses on the result rather than the person. Learners often overgeneralize to phrases like not successful in every case or misuse it for mild flaws.
Learning Tips
- Create contrast pairs: unsuccessful vs. successful vs. partially successful
- Notice collocations: unsuccessful attempt, unsuccessful outcome
- Record a short story about a plan that was unsuccessful to highlight context
- Practice past tense: The project was unsuccessful last quarter
- Don't overgeneralize to people; keep focus on results
- Compare with near-misses to understand degree of success
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'unsuccessful' mean?
A.Achieving failure
B.Having no luck with a goal
C.Completing a task
D.Being very prosperous
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence using 'unsuccessful'.
A.The project was unsuccessful despite everyone's hard work.
B.I am very unsuccessful when I go to the gym every day.
C.His plan to win the game was unsuccessful and he celebrated anyway.
D.She felt successful after her presentation was unsuccessful.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'unsuccessful'?
A.Victorious
B.Accomplished
C.Unfruitful
D.Thriving
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'unsuccessful'?
A.Apathetic
B.Successful
C.Unaware
D.Negligent
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where someone might be considered unsuccessful?
A.A business that launches a new product and sells out within a week.
B.A student who struggles to pass their exams throughout the year.
C.An athlete who wins every competition they enter.
D.A young chef who opens a restaurant and receives rave reviews.
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