Failed
/feɪld/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo be unsuccessful; to not achieve a desired result or outcome.
/feɪld/
To be unsuccessful in achieving a goal.
The experiment failed to produce the expected results.
💡 Simply: Think of it like this: you tried to bake a cake, but it burned. You *failed* to bake a good cake. You didn't get the result you wanted.
👶 For kids: When you try to do something, like catch a ball, and you don't do it. You *failed*.
More Examples
He failed his driving test three times before passing.
The engine failed during the flight, forcing an emergency landing.
How It's Used
"The company failed to meet its quarterly targets."
"She failed the exam because she didn't study."
To stop working or functioning properly; to break down.
/feɪld/
To cease to function or operate.
The power supply failed during the storm.
💡 Simply: Like when your phone runs out of battery unexpectedly – it *failed* to keep working. It stopped working.
👶 For kids: When something stops working, like your toy car's battery runs out. It *failed* to keep running.
More Examples
The brakes on the car failed, causing an accident.
Her eyesight failed as she got older.
How It's Used
"The computer failed, and I lost all my unsaved work."
"His heart failed, and he was rushed to the hospital."
Having been unsuccessful.
/feɪld/
Having failed or been unsuccessful.
The failed experiment led to a breakthrough in research.
💡 Simply: Think of it this way: if you tried to build a house, but it collapsed, it's a *failed* attempt. It didn't work.
👶 For kids: When you tried something and it didn't work. Like a *failed* drawing if you tried to draw a picture, but it looked bad.
More Examples
The rescue mission was a failed effort.
She regretted the failed investment, as she lost a lot of money.
How It's Used
"The failed attempt to climb the mountain."
"A failed business venture."
Idioms & expressions
fail to do something
To not manage to do something; to be unsuccessful in attempting something.
"He failed to complete the marathon."
without fail
Definitely; certainly; without exception.
"The sun rises every day without fail."
From Middle English failen, from Old French faillir (“to fail”), from Vulgar Latin *fallīre, from Latin fallō (“deceive, disappoint, fail”).
The word 'fail' has been in use since the 13th century, originating from Old French. Its meaning has remained largely consistent over time, emphasizing a lack of success or functionality.
Memory tip
Imagine a race where you don't cross the finish line - you 'failed'.
Word Origin
"to deceive, disappoint, fail"