facing failure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "facing failure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations where someone is confronting or dealing with the possibility of not succeeding in a task or goal. Example: "Despite the challenges, she remained determined, even while facing failure in her initial attempts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Facing failure, Goodman and the group got in touch with Cerci, via Skype.

The Guardian

Facing failure in Iraq, where violence is worsening, the US is anxious to avoid a similar catastrophe in Afghanistan.

The Guardian

The consensus was that older players, facing failure, would always be the best candidates to try the pitch.

The New York Times - Sports

The Dodd-Frank Act, while a good faith effort, does not solve the problem of a distressed global financial institution facing failure.

The New York Times

He added that "promotion standards must be phased in sensibly, not rushed," a nod to the backlash against testing in several states where hundreds of thousands of students are facing failure.

The New York Times

"The revolution encouraged many young people to disobey parents by protesting in the streets and facing failure, and for many of them this was a liberating mentality that they are carrying into their professional lives now".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Lincecum, at 28, has faced failure for the first time.

The New York Times - Sports

If he faces failure, how will he retreat?

The Economist

For the first time in my life, I faced failure.

The New York Times

Without taxpayer support, the whole system faced failure".

The Guardian - Business

Her willingness to face failure became the prevailing drama of her life.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use stronger verbs such as 'confronting' or 'overcoming' to make a point stronger.

Common error

Don't use "facing failure" as a broad statement without specifying the subject or area of potential failure; this can make your writing vague and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "facing failure" functions as a verbal phrase, acting as a modifier to describe a situation or state of being. It describes the action of confronting or dealing with a potential negative outcome. Ludwig shows various examples of this phrase in use across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

28%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "facing failure" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of confronting a situation where success is uncertain. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides examples across various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Scientific domains. When using this phrase, it's important to provide clear context to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases such as "confronting setbacks" or "grappling with defeat" can offer nuanced meanings. Remember to focus on the specific area of potential failure to enhance clarity and impact. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

confronting setbacks

This alternative focuses on the act of dealing with obstacles that hinder progress.

grappling with defeat

This alternative emphasizes the struggle and emotional impact of potential loss.

managing potential loss

This alternative emphasizes the act of controlling or mitigating possible negative consequences.

staring down adversity

This alternative suggests a courageous stance against difficult circumstances.

tackling prospective downfall

This alternative conveys an active approach to prevent ruin.

dealing with non-success

This alternative uses a more neutral term to describe the lack of positive outcome.

navigating towards adversity

This alternative implies strategic maneuvering within challenging circumstances.

encountering potential collapse

This alternative highlights the risk of complete breakdown or ruin.

experiencing unsuccessful outcomes

This alternative focuses on the results of an action, rather than the process of confronting failure.

enduring lack of achievement

This alternative highlights the patient acceptance of a failure situation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "facing failure" to sound more optimistic?

Consider alternatives like "encountering challenges", "overcoming obstacles", or "learning from setbacks" to emphasize resilience and growth.

Is it better to say "facing failure" or "facing the possibility of failure"?

"Facing failure" is more concise and direct. "Facing the possibility of failure" is more explicit but can be less impactful. Choose the option that best fits the tone and context of your writing.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "facing failure"?

Use "facing failure" when you want to highlight the act of confronting a situation where success is not guaranteed, especially when analyzing risks, planning strategies, or reflecting on experiences.

What are some common situations where someone might be "facing failure"?

Common situations include entrepreneurs launching new ventures, students taking difficult exams, athletes competing at high levels, and artists creating groundbreaking works.