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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
after failure
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
'after failure' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something happened (or will happen) after a period of not succeeding. For example: "John was determined to succeed in his goal, and after failure after failure, he eventually achieved it."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Academia
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
59 human-written examples
Failure after failure after failure.
News & Media
§ 63.41 Retesting after failure.
Academia
This pattern was reversed after failure feedback.
We also tend to back down after failure.
News & Media
How does a new leader build morale after failure?
News & Media
Surgery is considered after failure of conservative treatment.
Science
After failure, the fracture surfaces were observed via SEM.
"But through failure after failure, he persists in his vision and his commitment.
Academia
L. 103 322, § 320928(c), inserted "(other than itself)" after "failure of a qualified entity".
Academia
Half were asked a series of questions about their performance after success and half after failure.
Academia
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
1 human-written examples
Mr. Gompers suggests what he calls "attribution bias" — people generalizing from anecdotal success-after-failure stories.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Consider replacing "after failure" with more specific terms like "post-error correction" or "following the setback" for enhanced clarity, depending on the nature and context.
Common error
Refrain from repeatedly using "after failure" in close proximity. Vary sentence structure and vocabulary to maintain reader engagement and avoid monotony.
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "after failure" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase indicating a temporal relationship. It modifies a verb or noun by specifying when an action or event occurs in relation to a previous failure. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form.
Frequent in
Science
43%
News & Media
30%
Academia
22%
Less common in
Formal & Business
2%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "after failure" correctly indicates a temporal sequence following an unsuccessful event. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for use across various contexts, particularly in science, news, and academia. When employing the phrase, ensure clarity by defining the specific failure and vary your sentence structure to prevent repetition. Consider alternatives like "following a setback" or "post-defeat" for nuance. The phrase functions primarily as a prepositional modifier, signaling a response or analysis after a failure occurs, and is accepted in both formal and informal settings.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
on failing
A more succinct and direct way of saying the same.
once the attempt failed
Highlights the specific moment of failure as a transition point.
after the unsuccessful outcome
Focuses on the result rather than the process of failing.
following a setback
Emphasizes a temporary delay or obstacle rather than a complete lack of success.
post-defeat
Specifically highlights the period immediately after a loss, often in a competitive context.
in the wake of unsuccessful attempts
Implies a broader scope of multiple failed tries, with a more formal tone.
after the collapse
Highlights total ruin or breakdown.
in the aftermath of a bust
Describes a period following something that ended terribly or was very unsuccessful.
subsequent to not succeeding
A more verbose and slightly less direct way of expressing the same concept.
following non-fulfillment
Emphasizes the lack of meeting a requirement or expectation.
FAQs
How can I use "after failure" in a sentence?
You can use "after failure" to indicate a subsequent event or action that occurs once something has not succeeded. For example: "After failure, the team analyzed their mistakes".
What are some alternatives to saying "after failure"?
Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "following a setback", "post-defeat", or "in the wake of unsuccessful attempts".
When is it appropriate to use "after failure" in formal writing?
While "after failure" is generally acceptable, consider using more precise language in formal contexts, such as "subsequent to not succeeding" or "after the unsuccessful outcome", depending on the specific situation.
Is there a difference between "after failure" and "on failing"?
"After failure" emphasizes the time that has passed following an unsuccessful attempt, while "on failing" focuses on the immediate consequence or reaction to the act of failing itself. They are often interchangeable, but the nuance can shift the emphasis.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested