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failed

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˈfeɪɫd// UK //fˈeɪld// failed General-service

v. to not succeed in doing something you tried to do. You also use this when you do not pass a test or when a machine stops working correctly.

v. to be unsuccessful in achieving a specific goal or requirement. Often used to indicate the non-performance of a duty or the cessation of a mechanical or biological function.


SIMPLE

He failed the driving test twice.

CONTEXTUAL

The rescue mission failed because the weather conditions became too dangerous for the helicopters to land.

COMPLEX

The structural integrity of the bridge was compromised when several support cables failed under the weight of the heavy traffic during the storm.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

The verb is often followed by an infinitive ('failed to arrive') or a direct object ('failed the exam').

Pitfall

I failed from the examI failed the examWhen referring to a test or course, the verb is transitive and does not take the preposition 'from'.

Idioms1 entry

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