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English

failing

|fail/ing|

B2

/ˈfeɪlɪŋ/

(fail)

lack of success

Base FormPresent3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNounNounAdjective
failfailsfailsfailedfailedfailingfailurefailingsfailing
Etymology
Etymology Information

'failing' originates from the Old French word 'faillir', which meant 'to fail or be lacking'.

Historical Evolution

'faillir' transformed into the Middle English word 'failen', and eventually became the modern English word 'fail'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to be lacking or insufficient', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not succeeding'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a weakness or shortcoming in character or ability.

One of his failings is his inability to admit when he's wrong.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

present participle of 'fail'.

She is failing to meet the deadlines.

Adjective 1

becoming weaker or less effective.

His failing health was a concern for the family.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39