Find Antonyms

fail Antonyms

Opposite of fail

Because the opposite of fail shifts with each meaning, the 33 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 7 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
JUMP TO:

• verb (Context 1)

To be unsuccessful in achieving a goal, completing a task, or passing an examination.

Usage Example

"The negotiators worked through the night, lest the peace talks succeed to produce an agreement."

Strongest
succeed
pass
triumph
Strong
prosper
prevail
thrive
flourish
win

• verb (Context 2)

To neglect or omit to do something expected, required, or promised.

Usage Example

"Several witnesses failed to appear at the scheduled hearing."

Strong
remember
manage
fulfill
comply

• verb (Context 3)

To stop working properly, break down, or become weak and ineffective (especially of a machine, bodily organ, or faculty).

Usage Example

"The aircraft's backup generator kicked in immediately after the main power system failed."

Strongest
function
work
operate
Strong
run
hold up
recover
strengthen

• noun (Context 4)

A mark or grade indicating that a student has not achieved the minimum standard required to pass an examination or course.

Usage Example

"Missing the final project submission resulted in an automatic pass for the semester."

Strongest
pass
Strong
honors
distinction

• verb (Context 5)

To disappoint, desert, or prove inadequate for someone in a time of need.

Usage Example

"Words failed her when she tried to express her gratitude to the rescue team."

Strongest
stand by
support
Strong
uphold
sustain
satisfy
help

• verb (Context 6)

To judge a candidate or student as not having met the required standard in an examination or course.

Usage Example

"The examiner had no choice but to pass the driver after he ran a red light."

Strongest
pass
Strong
approve
certify

• noun (Context 7)

An embarrassing mistake, unsuccessful attempt, or disappointing outcome (used chiefly in informal contexts).

Usage Example

"Attempting to bake a three-tier cake without a recipe turned out to be a complete success."

Strongest
success
win
triumph
Strong
hit
victory
masterpiece

Similar words to fail

Words similar to fail shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

flunk
let down
failure
break down
neglect
malfunction
disappoint
omit
See all synonyms of fail

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Fail. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/fail
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.