fail
verb (used without object)
to fall short of success or achievement in something expected, attempted, desired, or approved.
have failed
-
present perfectof fail.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Personalized phage therapy may be considered when established treatments have failed, are unavailable, or cannot be used safely.
From Science Daily ● Nov. 5, 2026
Californians voted in 2018 to allow lawmakers to end daylight saving time, but since then, several efforts to put the change into effect have failed.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 1, 2026
Ankara has sent a proposal to Russia and Ukraine to end strikes on civilian ships, but says the two foes have failed to act on it.
From Barron's ● Oct. 31, 2026
Prospects for diplomatic talks have failed to generate significant selling interest in oil as traders increasingly focus on developments on the ground, analysts at ANZ Research said Wednesday.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 28, 2026
I have to pause and take a breath, because I have not convinced him; I have failed, and this is probably the last thing they will let me say before they arrest me.
From "Insurgent" by Veronica Roth
