Failure vs. Success — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on September 8, 2023
"Failure" denotes the lack of achievement or effectiveness; "Success" signifies the accomplishment of a goal or purpose.
Difference Between Failure and Success
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Failure" is often perceived as the absence or opposite of achievement. It denotes an unsuccessful attempt to accomplish a particular task or objective. Many individuals dread failure due to the negative connotations associated with it, seeing it as a setback or shortcoming. Conversely, "Success" is hailed as the pinnacle of achievement, where one accomplishes what they set out to do, often accompanied by feelings of happiness and satisfaction.
From a broader perspective, "Failure" isn't always a negative outcome. It can offer lessons, providing insights into what went wrong and how one can improve. The process of failing can lead to resilience, as individuals learn to adapt and overcome obstacles. "Success," while overwhelmingly positive, can sometimes come with its own set of challenges. With success can come increased expectations, pressure, and sometimes, complacency.
In terms of societal views, "Failure" is often seen as something to avoid, a mark against one's capabilities or efforts. Society tends to reward success and, in some cases, might shun or overlook those who fail. However, "Success," in its popular understanding, often garners recognition, accolades, and praise, leading individuals to be celebrated and recognized for their accomplishments.
Yet, both "Failure" and "Success" are integral parts of growth. While success can validate hard work and strategy, failure often serves as the catalyst for reflection, learning, and eventual progress. One without the other can lead to a skewed understanding of personal and professional journeys, as both failure and success provide valuable lessons and experiences.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Lack of achievement or effectiveness
Accomplishment of a goal or purpose
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Associated Feelings
Disappointment, frustration
Satisfaction, happiness
Societal Perception
Often negative, a setback
Positive, an achievement
Learning Potential
Offers insights, resilience building
Validates efforts, might lead to complacency
Nature
Inevitable in some endeavors, part of growth
Desired outcome, culmination of effort
Compare with Definitions
Failure
Failure denotes an unsuccessful attempt at something.
Despite his efforts, the business was a failure.
Success
Success denotes achieving a desired aim or outcome.
After years of hard work, her startup was a grand success.
Failure
Failure is the state of being unsuccessful in an endeavor.
Her first book was a commercial failure.
Success
Success signifies the accomplishment of set goals.
The concert was a huge success, with tickets sold out.
Failure
Failure is the lack of success in achieving a goal.
The bridge's collapse was due to engineering failure.
Success
Success indicates favorable or prosperous outcomes.
His invention became a commercial success.
Failure
Failure means non-performance of an expected action.
The power failure plunged the city into darkness.
Success
Success represents triumph over challenges.
Despite the odds, the team's success was commendable.
Failure
Failure signifies the omission of expected results.
The failure to deliver on promises angered the voters.
Success
Success is the positive culmination of efforts.
With dedication, he turned his idea into a success.
Failure
Failure is the state or condition of not meeting a desirable or intended objective, and may be viewed as the opposite of success. The criteria for failure depends on context, and may be relative to a particular observer or belief system.
Success
The accomplishment of an aim or purpose
The president had some success in restoring confidence
Failure
Lack of success
An economic policy that is doomed to failure
Success
The good or bad outcome of an undertaking
The good or ill success of their maritime enterprises
Failure
The neglect or omission of expected or required action
Their failure to comply with the basic rules
Success
The achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted
Attributed their success in business to hard work.
Failure
The action or state of not functioning
A chance engine failure
Symptoms of heart failure
Success
The gaining of fame or prosperity
An artist spoiled by success.
Failure
The condition or fact of not achieving the desired end or ends
The failure of an experiment.
Success
The extent of such gain.
Failure
One that fails
A failure at one's career.
Success
One that is successful
The plan was a success.
Failure
The condition or fact of being insufficient or falling short
A crop failure.
Success
(Archaic) A result or an outcome.
Failure
A cessation of proper functioning or performance
A power failure.
Success
The achievement of one's aim or goal.
His third attempt to pass the entrance exam was a success.
A glowing success
Failure
Nonperformance of what is requested or expected; omission
Failure to report a change of address.
Success
(business) Financial profitability.
Don't let success go to your head.
Failure
The act or fact of failing to pass a course, test, or assignment.
Success
One who, or that which, achieves assumed goals.
Scholastically, he was a success.
The new range of toys has been a resounding success.
Failure
A decline in strength or effectiveness.
Success
The fact of getting or achieving wealth, respect, or fame.
She is country music's most recent success.
Failure
The act or fact of becoming bankrupt or insolvent.
Success
(obsolete) Something which happens as a consequence; the outcome or result.
Failure
State or condition of not meeting a desirable or intended objective, opposite of success.
Success
Act of succeeding; succession.
Then all the sons of these five brethren reignedBy due success.
Failure
Omission to do something, whether or not it was attempted, especially something that ought to have been done.
Success
That which comes after; hence, consequence, issue, or result, of an endeavor or undertaking, whether good or bad; the outcome of effort.
Men . . . that are like to do that, that is committed to them, and to report back again faithfully the success.
Perplexed and troubled at his bad successThe tempter stood.
Failure
An object, person or endeavour in a state of failure or incapable of success.
Success
The favorable or prosperous termination of anything attempted; the attainment of a proposed object; prosperous issue.
Dream of success and happy victory!
Or teach with more success her sonThe vices of the time to shun.
Military successes, above all others, elevate the minds of a people.
Failure
Termination of the ability of an item to perform its required function; breakdown.
Success
That which meets with, or one who accomplishes, favorable results, as a play or a player.
Failure
Bankruptcy.
Success
An event that accomplishes its intended purpose;
Let's call heads a success and tails a failure
The election was a remarkable success for Republicans
Failure
Cessation of supply, or total defect; a failing; deficiency; as, failure of rain; failure of crops.
Success
An attainment that is successful;
His success in the marathon was unexpected
His new play was a great success
Failure
Omission; nonperformance; as, the failure to keep a promise.
Success
A state of prosperity or fame;
He is enjoying great success
He does not consider wealth synonymous with success
Failure
Want of success; the state of having failed.
Success
A person with a record of successes;
His son would never be the achiever that his father was
Only winners need apply
If you want to be a success you have to dress like a success
Failure
Decay, or defect from decay; deterioration; as, the failure of memory or of sight.
Failure
A becoming insolvent; bankruptcy; suspension of payment; as, failure in business.
Failure
A failing; a slight fault.
Failure
An act that fails;
His failure to pass the test
Failure
An event that does not accomplish its intended purpose;
The surprise party was a complete failure
Failure
Lack of success;
He felt that his entire life had been a failure
That year there was a crop failure
Failure
A person with a record of failing; someone who loses consistently
Failure
An unexpected omission;
He resented my failure to return his call
The mechanic's failure to check the brakes
Failure
Inability to discharge all your debts as they come due;
The company had to declare bankruptcy
Fraudulent loans led to the failure of many banks
Failure
Loss of ability to function normally;
Kidney failure
Common Curiosities
Is failure always negative?
Not necessarily; failure can be a valuable learning experience.
Is success always about wealth and fame?
No, success is subjective and can vary based on personal goals and values.
What is the primary difference between failure and success?
"Failure" denotes a lack of achievement, while "Success" signifies accomplishment.
How can one measure success?
Success is measured based on personal benchmarks, societal standards, or specific goals achieved.
Can failure lead to success?
Yes, failure often provides lessons that can pave the way for future success.
Can one have success without ever experiencing failure?
It's possible, but rare. Most success stories have instances of failure behind them.
What traits contribute to success?
Determination, resilience, hard work, adaptability, and continuous learning.
Why is success often celebrated more than failure?
Societal norms often reward achievement and might overlook the lessons from failure.
How can one cope with failure?
By viewing it as a learning opportunity, seeking feedback, and staying persistent.
How can one ensure continuous success?
By setting clear goals, staying adaptable, and continuously learning and evolving.
Is it possible to learn from success as well as failure?
Absolutely, both success and failure offer different lessons and insights.
Do all failures lead to success?
Not always, but they can provide insights and foundations for eventual success.
Are failure and success opposites?
Generally, they are seen as opposites, but they are interconnected in personal and professional growth.
Is the fear of failure normal?
Yes, it's a common human emotion, but it shouldn't deter one from trying.
Is success the key to happiness?
Success can contribute to happiness, but it's not the only factor. Personal contentment and inner peace play roles too.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
