unsuccessful
UK: ˌʌnsəkˈsɛsfʊl | US: ˌʌnsəkˈsɛsfəl
adj. not achieving desired results; failing to accomplish a goal
adj. lacking success or effectiveness
The word "unsuccessful" is formed by combining the negative prefix "un-" (from Old English "un-," meaning "not") with the noun "success" (from Latin "successus," meaning "advance, outcome") and the suffix "-ful" (from Old English "-full," meaning "full of"). The prefix "un-" negates the positive connotation of "success," while "-ful" turns the noun into an adjective. Historically, "success" evolved from Latin "succedere" ("to come after, prosper"), reflecting a progression toward a favorable outcome. Adding "un-" inverts this meaning, emphasizing failure or lack of achievement.
Despite his efforts, the project was deemed unsuccessful.
She felt discouraged after another unsuccessful job interview.
The team's unsuccessful campaign led to a reevaluation of their strategy.
His unsuccessful attempt to fix the leak only made it worse.
The medicine proved unsuccessful in treating the rare disease.