fail
verb (used without object)
to fall short of success or achievement in something expected, attempted, desired, or approved.
is failing
-
present progressiveof fail (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate 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.
Cyber security Professor Alan Woodward from Surrey University told reporters OpenAI had "egg on it's face", and Katie Moussouris from Luta Security went further, suggesting the AI industry is failing to control its dangerous inventions.
From BBC ● Jul. 24, 2026
"Australia's world-leading social media laws are not failing. But big tech is failing to obey the laws," Communications Minister Anika Wells said at the time.
From Barron's ● Jun. 24, 2026
Officials say the charter school is failing; defenders want a closer look at data.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 17, 2026
“I have traveled to festivals all over the world in the last few years. I don’t know that I can define why freedom is failing, but I see that it is — everywhere.”
From Salon ● May 22, 2026
He is failing his driver’s test and fighting back tears when the instructor tells him.
From "Every Day" by David Levithan
