Meaning of 'fail'

verb

get worse

Synonyms: slip

verb

stop operating or functioning

Synonyms: break

verb

prove insufficient

Example: "The water supply for the town failed after a long drought"

Synonyms: run out

verb

disappoint, prove undependable to

Synonyms: betray

verb

become bankrupt or insolvent

Example: "fail financially and close"

verb

fall short in what is expected

Example: "They failed to meet their obligations."

verb

fail to get a passing grade

Example: "They studied hard but failed nevertheless."

Synonyms: flunk

verb

judge unacceptable

Example: "The teacher failed six students"

verb

be unsuccessful

Example: "Where do today's public schools fail?"

Synonyms: miscarry

verb

fail to do something

Synonyms: neglect

verb

be unable

Example: "I fail to understand your motives"