Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
have success
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
'have success' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe the achievement of a goal, or the realization of an ambition. For example, "After years of hard work, he was finally able to have success in his business."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Academia
Science
Alternative expressions(6)
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
60 human-written examples
"He didn't have success, so he needs some successful time".
News & Media
It can have success.
News & Media
Where do we have success?
News & Media
It helps them to have success.
News & Media
Other than that, will he have success?
News & Media
He just wants me to have success.
News & Media
> unfortunately I didn't have success.
Academia
He'll have success with it".
News & Media
I want to have success.
News & Media
He always expected to have success.
News & Media
He just wants us to have success".
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "have success", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes success in that particular situation. Specify the area or goal where success is achieved for clarity.
Common error
Avoid using "have success" without specifying the area of achievement. Instead of saying "They want to have success", specify the field like "They want to "have success in their careers"" to avoid ambiguity.
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "have success" functions as a verb phrase indicating the attainment of a desired outcome or achievement. Ludwig confirms that this is correct and usable in written English. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use across various contexts to express accomplishment.
Frequent in
News & Media
75%
Academia
10%
Science
5%
Less common in
Wiki
3%
Formal & Business
2%
Reference
1%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "have success" is a versatile and commonly used phrase to indicate the attainment of a goal or achievement, confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a verb phrase with a neutral formality, making it suitable for a variety of contexts, most frequently in news and media. While grammatically sound, it's important to clearly define what constitutes success within the specific context, avoiding ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "achieve triumph" or "flourish and thrive" for nuanced expression.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
become accomplished
Highlights the development of expertise and skill, focusing on personal growth and mastery.
realize aspirations
Focuses on achieving personal goals and dreams; more introspective and goal-oriented.
achieve triumph
Emphasizes a significant victory or achievement; stronger connotation than "have success".
reach the pinnacle
Denotes reaching the highest point of achievement or fame; more ambitious and aspirational.
attain a favorable result
Focuses on the positive outcome or consequence of an action; more formal.
reap rewards
Highlights the benefits gained from effort and hard work; emphasizes the payoff.
enjoy prosperity
Indicates long-term well-being and flourishing, often in a financial context; broader meaning.
flourish and thrive
Suggests vigorous growth and development; more dynamic and expressive.
gain recognition
Focuses on receiving acknowledgement for achievements, emphasizing public approval and validation.
make headway
Implies progress and advancement, often against obstacles; less conclusive than "have success".
FAQs
How can I use "have success" in a sentence?
You can use "have success" to indicate the achievement of a goal or a positive outcome. For instance, "With hard work, you can "have success in your studies"" or "The company hopes to "have success with their new product"".
What are some alternatives to "have success"?
Alternatives include "achieve triumph", "attain a favorable result", or "flourish and thrive", depending on the specific context and desired nuance.
Is it better to say "have success" or "be successful"?
Both phrases are correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Have success" emphasizes the act of attaining success, while "be successful" describes a state of being. The choice depends on the intended emphasis.
What's the difference between "have success" and "achieve success"?
"Achieve success" implies a more deliberate and effortful accomplishment than "have success". While "have success" can sometimes suggest luck or chance, "achieve success" typically indicates intentional effort and skill.
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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
87%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested