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fails

  • present tense form
    of fail (3rd person singular).
    fail
    verb (used without object)
    to fall short of success or achievement in something expected, attempted, desired, or approved.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

And even if that fails, it could still be a while before we know the actual victor.

From Slate ● Nov. 3, 2026

For the record, the Catholic schools also argue Colorado fails that test.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 2, 2026

The problem surrounds what happens next - when the system fails and control of the line shifts to manual.

From BBC ● Oct. 31, 2026

If she fails to “provide clear and unequivocal commitments” to their questions, the national committee will vote on whether to rescind DSA-LA’s endorsement, a spokesperson confirmed.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 27, 2026

If it’s meant to chase him off, it fails.

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin