Success
/səkˈses/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe attainment of wealth, fame, or position.
/səkˈses/
The accomplishment of an aim or purpose.
The project's success was celebrated by the entire team.
💡 Simply: Imagine you finally learn to ride your bike after falling a bunch of times. Then, you can ride without help! That's success! It means you did what you wanted to do.
👶 For kids: When you do a good job at something, like getting all the answers right on a test, that's success!
More Examples
After years of hard work, she achieved great success in her field.
His success in business allowed him to donate to many charities.
How It's Used
"Achieving financial success is the primary goal of many companies."
"Her success in overcoming adversity was inspiring."
"The success of the experiment depended on accurate measurements."
A person or thing that is successful; a favorable outcome.
/səkˈses/
A person or thing that achieves success.
The concert was a huge success, with thousands of people attending.
💡 Simply: If a new video game is really popular and everyone loves playing it, you can say it's a success. It means a lot of people liked it.
👶 For kids: Something good that happens because you did a good job.
More Examples
The company's new marketing campaign proved to be a success.
The book was an unexpected success, climbing to the top of the bestseller list.
How It's Used
"The new product was a resounding success."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
success story
A person or thing that is a successful example or instance, especially in overcoming difficulties.
"Her journey from poverty to wealth is a true success story."
taste success
To experience the feeling of success or achievement, often for the first time.
"After years of struggling, the young artist finally tasted success with her first exhibition."
From Old French *succès* (15th century), from Latin *successus*, past participle of *succedō* 'succeed' (literally, 'to come after').
The word 'success' has been used to describe the favorable outcome of actions or events since the 15th century.
Memory tip
Think of a successful person as having a "sweet excess" – exceeding expectations.
Word Origin
"To follow or come after; favorable outcome"