fail to fulfil

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fail to fulfil" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing unmet obligations, expectations, or requirements. Example: "If you fail to fulfil your responsibilities, it may lead to serious consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

If extraterrestrials fail to fulfil this death wish, then unchained weather will.

Independent

Nigeria have a rich tradition of seemingly promising youngsters who mysteriously fail to fulfil their potential.

The Guardian - Sport

But could a licence-payer complain to the BBC that such shows fail to fulfil the state's mission statement?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Slovakia cannot rely on its security being guaranteed by others, otherwise we fail to fulfil our obligations," he said.

The Economist

One of the saddest revelations for football fans is that youthful talent will invariably fail to fulfil its potential.

The Guardian - Sport

Tristram Hunt, the shadow education minister, has declared class warfare on independent schools that fail to fulfil their obligations to their community.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

But they failed to fulfil their promises.

The Guardian

However, they failed to fulfil these conditions.

The Guardian

Europe has failed to fulfil the historic role allocated to it.

The Guardian - Business

It also says sanctions would return if Iran fails to fulfil its commitments at any time.

Independent

But, surely, if he fails to fulfil certain promises people will be angry?

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fail to fulfil", ensure the context clearly defines what obligation, expectation, or requirement is not being met. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "fail to fulfil" in overly broad or general statements without specifying the unfulfilled obligation. Instead of saying "The project failed to fulfil", specify what aspects of the project were not fulfilled: "The project failed to fulfil its budgetary requirements."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fail to fulfil" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating a lack of completion or satisfaction of an obligation, expectation, or commitment. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "fail to fulfil" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the non-completion or non-satisfaction of obligations, expectations, or commitments. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts such as news, science and formal communication. While it's a common phrase, specific alternatives like "fall short of" or "miss the mark" might be more appropriate depending on the intended nuance. When using this phrase, be sure to provide context to specify the unfulfilled duty for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fall short of

Focuses on not reaching a required standard or level.

come up short

Indicates a deficiency or lack of something needed to succeed.

neglect to satisfy

Emphasizes a lack of attention or effort in meeting a need or requirement.

prove unable to deliver

Highlights the incapacity or inability to provide a promised outcome.

miss the mark

Implies a failure to achieve a specific target or goal.

disappoint expectations

Focuses on the negative emotional impact of not meeting anticipated outcomes.

be remiss in

Highlights a failure due to negligence or carelessness.

leave undone

Emphasizes the state of incompleteness or lack of action.

default on

Specifically refers to failing to meet a financial obligation or commitment.

flounder in completing

Suggests a struggling effort that ultimately does not succeed.

FAQs

How can I use "fail to fulfil" in a sentence?

You can use "fail to fulfil" to describe a situation where someone or something does not meet expectations or obligations. For example, "If the company "fails to fulfil" its contractual obligations, it may face legal consequences."

What is a synonym for "fail to fulfil"?

Alternatives to "fail to fulfil" include "fall short of", "neglect to satisfy", or "miss the mark" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "fail to fulfil" and "fail to achieve"?

"Fail to fulfil" typically refers to unmet obligations, promises, or requirements, whereas "fail to achieve" refers to not reaching a particular goal or outcome. You "fail to fulfil" a duty; you "fail to achieve" a goal.

Is it better to use "fail to fulfil" or a more direct verb?

The best choice depends on the context. "Fail to fulfil" is suitable when emphasizing the unfulfilled nature of a commitment or requirement. A more direct verb, such as "neglect", "breach", or "disappoint", might be preferable when a specific action or consequence is highlighted.