unsuccessful

adjective

un·​suc·​cess·​ful ˌən-sək-ˈses-fəl 

: not successful : not meeting with or producing success

unsuccessfully

ˌən-sək-ˈses-fə-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of unsuccessful

• futile
• useless
• abortive

Examples of unsuccessful in a Sentence

His last novel was unsuccessful.

an unsuccessful attempt to fix the faucet ourselves

Recent Examples on the Web

The government later clarified that Moscow’s attempts to interfere were unsuccessful. — ABC News, 12 Oct. 2026

So far, his second attempt at securing an energy ceasefire also seems unsuccessful. — David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 12 Oct. 2026

Fortune’s efforts to speak directly with participants in Armstrong’s and Lev’s retreats were unsuccessful. — Tatiana Sataua, Fortune, 11 Oct. 2026

Trump has repeatedly sought to end the conflict, but so far has been unsuccessful. — Garrett Downs, CNBC, 11 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1617, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing unsuccessful

• make an unsuccessful run for

Rhymes for unsuccessful

• distressful
• successful
• stressful

Kids Definition

unsuccessful

adjective

un·​suc·​cess·​ful ˌən(t)-sək-ˈses-fəl 

: not successful : not having or producing success

unsuccessfully

-fə-lē 

adverb