a resounding failure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a resounding failure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or event that has failed dramatically or completely, often with significant consequences. Example: "The project was intended to revolutionize the industry, but it turned out to be a resounding failure, leading to substantial financial losses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

And a massive army operation to take control of the strip, which some hawks advocate, would mean many deaths on both sides, and could leave the army policing Gaza indefinitely, a resounding failure for Israel's "disengagement" in 2005.Sanctions on Gaza may not work, but they look tough to the Israeli public, and Mr Olmert needs to look tough.

The Economist

It was also a resounding failure.

Harvard Business Review

His personal efforts seem to have been a resounding failure.

The Guardian

Still, the book has been a resounding failure in the marketplace.

The New York Times

His only attempt at a major opera, "Die Hochzeit des Camacho," proved a resounding failure.

The New York Times - Books

The operation was codenamed "Acoustic Kitty" and was a resounding failure.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Sputnik was the first artificial satellite in orbit around the Earth, and the surprise of its successful launch, compounded by the resounding failure of Project Vanguard to launch an American satellite after two attempts, has been dubbed the "Sputnik crisis" and was the impetus for the beginning of the Space Race.

Wikipedia

But this impenetrably surreal and unstructured book was his first resounding failure.

Independent

Resounding failure struck down one of the two magnificent Flemish manuscripts consigned from the legendary Chatsworth collection.

The New York Times - Arts

12.38pm BST 6th over England 26-3 (Ali 1, Buttler 0) This would be wonderful and resounding failure, but Netherlands are bowling brilliantly.

The Guardian - Sport

Since 2006, Zarate says "I have observed, analyzed and documented the resounding failure of the Anti-Drug War initiated by (former Mexican President) Felipe Calderón".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a resounding failure" to emphasize the complete and unambiguous nature of a failure. It is more impactful than simply stating something "failed".

Common error

Avoid using "a resounding failure" in very casual conversation. It's a relatively formal phrase and may sound overly dramatic in everyday settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a resounding failure" functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific instance or event as having failed completely and decisively. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a resounding failure" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something that has failed completely and unambiguously. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. Predominantly found in news and media, it's also present in scientific and formal business contexts. While versatile, it is best used in neutral to professional settings. Consider alternatives like "complete disaster" or "abject failure" for nuanced expressions. Be mindful of overusing it in very casual settings. The phrase is a powerful way to express the magnitude of a failure, emphasizing its completeness and the recognition thereof.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unmitigated failure

Underscores that the failure is complete and without any redeeming qualities.

Comprehensive failure

Indicates that the failure affected all aspects or areas.

Abject failure

Stresses the miserable and hopeless nature of the failure.

Spectacular failure

Highlights the dramatic or highly visible nature of the failure.

Utter catastrophe

Highlights the disastrous consequences and widespread impact of the failure.

Complete disaster

Emphasizes the catastrophic nature of the failure.

Resounding defeat

Suggests a loss in a competitive context.

Total flop

Informal term suggesting a failure that is both sudden and embarrassing.

Decisive setback

Highlights the hindering effect on progress or goals.

Miserable outcome

Focuses on the disappointment and unhappiness resulting from the failure.

FAQs

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

You can use "a resounding failure" to describe events, projects, or strategies that have completely failed to achieve their intended goals. For example, "The marketing campaign was "a resounding failure", resulting in significant financial losses".

What are some alternatives to "a resounding failure"?

Alternatives include phrases like "complete disaster", "total flop", or "abject failure", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "a resounding failure" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when you need to strongly emphasize the magnitude of a failure. It's often found in news articles, business reports, and academic papers.

What makes "a resounding failure" different from a simple "failure"?

The word "resounding" adds emphasis, indicating that the failure was not only complete but also widely recognized or acknowledged. It highlights the unambiguous nature of the "failure".