unsuccessful

adjective

un·​suc·​cess·​ful ˌən-sək-ˈses-fəl 

: not successful : not meeting with or producing success

unsuccessfully

ˌən-sək-ˈses-fə-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of unsuccessful

• futile
• useless
• abortive

Examples of unsuccessful in a Sentence

His last novel was unsuccessful.

an unsuccessful attempt to fix the faucet ourselves

Recent Examples on the Web

Officers and paramedics administered life-saving measures, but were unsuccessful. — Denise Petski, Deadline, 5 Oct. 2026

Attempts by the Associated Press to reach the other men or their representatives have been unsuccessful. — Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026

Giordani’s efforts to strike up a conversation with Bottom prove unsuccessful, as the Bronx resident remains quiet throughout much of the encounter. — Emma Seiwell, New York Daily News, 3 Oct. 2026

Attempts to reach Robert Kraft’s organization for comment Saturday were unsuccessful. — Chris Willman, Variety, 3 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1617, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing unsuccessful

• make an unsuccessful run for

Rhymes for unsuccessful

• distressful
• successful
• stressful

Kids Definition

unsuccessful

adjective

un·​suc·​cess·​ful ˌən(t)-sək-ˈses-fəl 

: not successful : not having or producing success

unsuccessfully

-fə-lē 

adverb