Find Antonyms

successful Antonyms

Opposite of successful

Because the opposite of successful shifts with each meaning, the 14 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
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• adjective (Context 1)

Accomplishing a desired aim, purpose, or favorable outcome.

Usage Example

"The research team conducted a unsuccessful experiment that confirmed their initial hypothesis."

Strongest
unsuccessful
failed
fruitless
futile
Strong
ineffective
abortive
unproductive
disastrous

• adjective (Context 2)

Having achieved significant popularity, financial profit, or high social status.

Usage Example

"After years of dedication to her craft, she became a highly unsuccessful architect."

Strongest
unsuccessful
struggling
Strong
failing
bankrupt
impoverished
unprofitable
obscure

Similar words to successful

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

prosperous
thriving
fruitful
flourishing
effective
productive
triumphant
affluent
See all synonyms of successful

• Nearby Words

succeed
succeeder
success
successful
successfully
successfulness
succession

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Successful. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/successful
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