striking failure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "striking failure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a failure that is particularly noticeable or significant, often in a dramatic or impactful way. Example: "The project was a striking failure, leaving the team to reevaluate their approach and strategies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Relations with Syria have been the most striking failure.

The New York Times

"This striking failure establishes the need for far more vigorous Congressional oversight".

The New York Times

The most striking failure affected a previously unpublished object of immense value to the history of Arab metalwork.

The New York Times - Arts

The most striking failure was at the F.B.I., an organization with a carefully buffed image that bears little resemblance to its rocky day-to-day performance.

The New York Times

Asli Aydintasbas, a columnist at the Turkish daily Milliyet, argues that the episode was a striking failure in diplomacy, for both the United States and Turkey.

The New York Times

A leading Democratic lawmaker said on Monday that a multibillion-dollar effort to better protect the nation's borders from terrorists had so far been "a striking failure," but Bush administration officials defended the ambitious project.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Other phenomenal prices were paid — and other striking failures observed.

The New York Times - Arts

But while his design ideas have frequently been runaway successes, there have also been striking failures.

The New York Times

Floodwaters entered the domestic air terminal, Don Muang, in one of the most striking failures in the effort to defend Bangkok, the capital, from runoff flowing from the north.

The New York Times

Commissioned by England's NHS chief executive Simon Stevens, the report laid bare the complexity and scale of the undertaking to achieve parity, but it also provided a blueprint for a system-wide, strategic change to tackle striking failures and gaps in care.

The Guardian

In "The Firm: The Story of McKinsey and Its Secret Influence on American Business," reporter Duff McDonald argues the company invented many of the tools of modern management but at the same time can also be associated with a list of "striking failures".

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "striking failure" when you want to emphasize the notable or remarkable aspect of a failure. This suggests that the failure is not just a minor setback, but something significant that demands attention.

Common error

Avoid using "striking failure" in situations where a simple "failure" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound melodramatic or hyperbolic. Reserve it for instances where the failure truly stands out.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "striking failure" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "striking" modifies the noun "failure". It emphasizes the remarkable or noticeable aspect of the failure, making it more significant. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and used in a variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "striking failure" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that emphasizes the significant or remarkable nature of a failure. While confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's more than just a simple setback. It's most commonly found in news and scientific contexts, indicating its neutrality and acceptability across various registers. While effective, it's best to avoid overuse and ensure that its use aligns with the actual impact of the failure being described. Consider alternatives like "noticeable failure" or "remarkable failure" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

noticeable failure

Emphasizes the ease with which the failure can be observed.

remarkable failure

Highlights the unusual or exceptional nature of the failure.

conspicuous failure

Stresses the obviousness and visibility of the failure.

egregious failure

Indicates that the failure is shockingly bad or blatant.

patent failure

Implies the failure is evident and undeniable.

flagrant failure

Suggests the failure is openly and shamelessly bad.

dramatic failure

Focuses on the impactful and theatrical nature of the failure.

significant failure

Emphasizes the importance and consequence of the failure.

noteworthy failure

Highlights that the failure is worth paying attention to.

astonishing failure

Focuses on the surprise or shock caused by the failure.

FAQs

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

You can use "striking failure" to describe a situation where something has failed in a particularly noticeable or significant way. For example, "The company's new product launch was a "striking failure", leading to significant losses."

What are some synonyms for "striking failure"?

Some synonyms for "striking failure" include "noticeable failure", "remarkable failure", and "conspicuous failure".

What is the difference between "striking failure" and "failure"?

"Failure" is a general term indicating lack of success. "Striking failure" emphasizes that the failure is particularly noticeable, significant, or remarkable, suggesting a greater impact or visibility than a typical failure.

Is "striking failure" a formal or informal expression?

"Striking failure" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, be mindful of the overall tone of your writing and choose the most appropriate phrase for the situation.