fail
verb (used without object)
to fall short of success or achievement in something expected, attempted, desired, or approved.
have been failing
-
present perfect progressiveof fail.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
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.
She said she did not regret her coverage as she would have been "failing to do the basics of my job" if she had not investigated the claims against him.
From Barron's ● Aug. 19, 2026
At UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine, he wrote, students have been failing basic tests in areas like family medicine and pediatrics.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 23, 2026
Tesla’s profits per share and revenue have been failing to meet investor expectations.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 16, 2025
A strong job market is of course good for workers, particularly when their raises have been failing to keep up with inflation.
From Seattle Times ● Jan. 12, 2023
He would have been failing in good clerical traditions, if he had not gently drawn near the door and listened with all his ears; struck with amazement, he heard the singular conversation which follows.
From The Grip of Desire by Hector France
