failure
/ˈfeɪ.ljər/The condition or fact of not meeting a desired or expected standard, or of being unsuccessful in achieving a goal.
The project ended in failure due to poor planning.
The team's failure to communicate led to the project's collapse.
The term can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
In engineering or technology, a system or component that does not function as intended, often leading to malfunction or breakdown.
The failure of the circuit board caused the device to shut down.
Engineers analyzed the failure to prevent future malfunctions.
In technical contexts, 'failure' often refers to a specific point of breakdown.
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💡Pro Tip
Avoid negative connotations
In professional settings, 'failure' can be softened with phrases like 'unsuccessful attempt' or 'lesson learned.'
⚡Gold Rule
Context matters
The meaning of 'failure' varies significantly between personal, business, and technical contexts.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'failen' (to fail) + '-ure' (noun suffix), first recorded in the late 14th century.
📝Usage Notes
In business and technology, 'failure' often carries a neutral or technical connotation, while in personal contexts, it may have emotional weight.