a major failure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major failure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a significant or serious lack of success in a particular situation or endeavor. Example: "The project was deemed a major failure due to the lack of planning and resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This was a major failure.

The New York Times - Sports

This is a major failure.

The New York Times

"This was a major failure of monitoring".

Independent

Napoleon's next campaign was a major failure.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"This was a major failure for Algerian security.

The Guardian

Mechanical anomaly is a major failure type of induction motor.

Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing

The Susan B. was the most successful, and it was still considered a major failure.

The New York Times

When inflation came in the nineteen-seventies that was a major failure of Keynesian economics.

The New Yorker

Yes, I'm being negative, but a major failure in the past is prologue.

The New York Times - Sports

Unlike the original Napoleon, he has not had a major failure.

The New York Times - Arts

When inflation came in the nineteen-seventies, that was a major failure of Keynesian economics.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing setbacks, use "a major failure" to underscore the severity of the situation. However, consider using more nuanced language if you want to emphasize specific aspects of the failure, such as its cause or impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a major failure" repeatedly in close proximity. Variety in language improves readability and impact. Instead, consider alternatives like "significant setback" or "complete disaster" to add nuance to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major failure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It denotes a significant lack of success or a substantial setback, aligning with examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase "a major failure" is grammatically sound and frequently used to describe a significant lack of success. It appears most often in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. While its directness makes it suitable for formal communication, varying your language with synonyms like "significant setback" or "complete disaster" can enhance your writing. Using "a major failure" is most effective when emphasizing the scale and impact of an unsuccessful outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant setback

Emphasizes the hindrance or delay caused by the failure.

a complete disaster

Highlights the catastrophic nature and widespread negative impact.

a serious blunder

Focuses on the mistake or error that led to the failure.

a monumental flop

Stresses the scale and visibility of the failure.

a crushing defeat

Highlights the sense of loss and disappointment associated with the failure.

an utter fiasco

Emphasizes the chaotic and embarrassing nature of the failure.

a notable deficiency

Highlights the lack of some important quality or component.

a glaring inadequacy

Focuses on the obvious and insufficient nature of something.

a regrettable breakdown

Emphasizes the unfortunate and disruptive end of something.

a critical shortcoming

Highlights the important weakness or flaw that contributed to the failure.

FAQs

How can I use "a major failure" in a sentence?

You can use "a major failure" to describe a significant lack of success, such as "The project was considered a major failure due to budget overruns and missed deadlines".

What are some alternatives to "a major failure"?

You can use alternatives like "significant setback", "complete disaster", or "serious blunder" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a major failure" in formal writing?

Yes, "a major failure" is appropriate for formal writing when you need to clearly and directly communicate a significant lack of success. However, consider the specific tone and audience to ensure it is the most effective choice.

What's the difference between "a major failure" and "a minor failure"?

"A major failure" indicates a significant and impactful lack of success, while "a minor failure" suggests a smaller, less consequential setback.