a massive failure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a massive failure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or substantial lack of success in a particular endeavor or situation. Example: "The project was intended to revolutionize the industry, but it turned out to be a massive failure, leading to significant financial losses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The "war on drugs" has been a massive failure.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This is a massive failure of public policy".

Independent

A massive failure of the private sector has been Photoshopped into the fault of the state.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This is a massive failure of public trust by these companies," he said.

The Guardian - Business

This is a massive failure of planning that could affect thousands of children.

The Guardian

Here they are detailing a massive failure, and chalking it up to experience.

The Guardian

This points to a massive failure of French society to integrate minority groups.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was such a massive failure, there were lawsuits for 10 years.

The New York Times

So when September the 11th came, I thought, "Gosh, this is -- this is a massive failure of intelligence".

The New York Times

He said the tabloid closure could have been a signal of a "massive failure of corporate governance" at News Corporation.

The Guardian

We saw a massive failure of free-market economics, but his answer is more of the same.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a massive failure", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific endeavor or system failed. Providing details about the scope and impact of the failure strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a massive failure" too casually. Overusing such strong language can diminish its impact and make your writing seem less credible. Reserve it for situations where the scale and consequences truly warrant it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a massive failure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes something that has not succeeded in a substantial or impactful way. Ludwig AI examples confirm this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a massive failure" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes a significant lack of success with considerable negative impact. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically sound and widely accepted across various contexts. While alternatives like "complete debacle" or "total catastrophe" exist, "a massive failure" offers a balanced expression suitable for both formal and neutral registers. When using this phrase, it is essential to provide context and avoid overuse to maintain its impact. Frequent sources include The Guardian, The New York Times, and TechCrunch, demonstrating its prevalence in news and media. In summary, while other options may convey more specificity, "a massive failure" provides a reliable and understandable way to describe a substantial setback.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complete debacle

Emphasizes the chaotic and disorganized nature of the failure, suggesting a humiliating outcome.

a total catastrophe

Highlights the disastrous consequences and far-reaching negative impact of the failure.

a resounding defeat

Focuses on the conclusive and decisive nature of the failure, particularly in competitive contexts.

a spectacular collapse

Suggests a sudden and dramatic downfall, emphasizing the unexpected and visually striking nature of the failure.

an utter fiasco

Implies a complete and embarrassing failure, often involving incompetence and mismanagement.

a crushing setback

Highlights the discouraging and demoralizing impact of the failure on progress and goals.

a monumental blunder

Emphasizes the significant error or mistake that led to the failure, often implying negligence or poor judgment.

an egregious error

Stresses the shocking and unpardonable nature of the mistake or oversight that resulted in the failure.

a significant disappointment

Underlines the failure to meet expectations or achieve desired outcomes, often in a milder tone.

a major letdown

Indicates a feeling of disillusionment and discouragement due to the failure to fulfill hopes or promises.

FAQs

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

You can use "a massive failure" to describe situations with significant negative outcomes. For instance: "The company's new product launch was "a massive failure", resulting in substantial financial losses."

What are some alternatives to "a massive failure"?

Alternatives include "complete debacle", "total catastrophe", or "resounding defeat", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it better to use "large failure" or "a massive failure"?

"A massive failure" implies a greater scale and impact than "a large failure". While both are grammatically correct, "a massive failure" suggests a more significant and widespread negative outcome.

What distinguishes "a massive failure" from "a simple failure"?

"A simple failure" indicates a general lack of success, while "a massive failure" conveys that the lack of success was extensive, impactful, and likely had serious repercussions.