# success

/səkˈsɛs/ (US) · /səksˈɛs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/success
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. achieving a goal

noun · CEFR A1

the fact of getting the result you wanted or reaching a goal.

For teachers: the accomplishment of an aim or purpose. Uncountable in this abstract sense.

- The hard work of the team led to the success of the project.
- The long-term success of the initiative depends on consistent funding and the continued support of local community leaders.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'in' to show the area of achievement.

### 2. wealth and status

noun · CEFR B1

becoming rich, famous, or respected for your work.

For teachers: the attainment of wealth, favour, or eminence. Uncountable in this sense.

- After years of struggling, the young actor finally found success in Hollywood.
- Despite his sudden commercial success, the artist remained remarkably grounded and continued to live in his modest studio apartment.

### 3. a successful person or thing

noun · CEFR A2

a person or thing that does very well or is very popular.

For teachers: a person or thing that achieves desired goals or attains prosperity. Countable in this sense.

- The new Italian restaurant has been a huge success since it opened.
- The product launch was such a success that the company had to double its production capacity within the first three months.

Usage: This sense is countable and can be used with 'a' or in the plural.

## Examples

- Her new business is a huge success.
- After months of hard work, the team celebrated the success of their latest marketing campaign.
- The unprecedented success of the novel transformed the obscure writer into a literary sensation, proving that unconventional narratives could still capture a mainstream audience.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.