Find Synonyms

unsuccessful Synonyms

Another word for unsuccessful

Choosing another word for unsuccessful depends on context, so the 14 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
JUMP TO:

• adjective (Context 1)

Not achieving the desired aim, result, or outcome; failing to accomplish an intended purpose.

Usage Example

"After several failed attempts to repair the antique clock, she decided to take it to a professional horologist."

Strongest
failed
fruitless
ineffective
Strong
futile
abortive
unproductive
vain
unavailing
bootless

• adjective (Context 2)

Not attaining wealth, popularity, prestige, or professional eminence.

Usage Example

"The novel tells the story of an struggling playwright who eventually finds fulfillment teaching drama at a community college."

Strong
struggling
unprosperous
luckless
hapless
Weak
unfortunate

Opposites of unsuccessful

The opposite of unsuccessful shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

successful
effective
prosperous
fruitful
thriving
flourishing
productive
accomplished
See all opposites of unsuccessful

• Nearby Words

unsubstantiated
unsubtle
unsubtly
unsuccessful
unsuccessfully
unsuccessfulness
unsugared

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Unsuccessful. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/unsuccessful
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.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 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.