succeed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "succeed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing achieving a desired outcome or reaching a goal. Example: "With hard work and dedication, I believe I can succeed in my career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Negotiations will succeed, he said, "because both Iran and the US need it".

The Guardian

If Rupert Murdoch, Nigel Farage and a flip-flopping David Cameron succeed in that ambition, it will lead to the break-up of the UK with the remnants dependent on the US and our lives ruled by global corporations.

The Guardian

Another Republican will almost certainly succeed her, albeit a more moderate one who will be harder to defeat.

The Guardian - Opinion

Cesare Prandelli has stated the belief that his team will need athletes, more than technically gifted ball-players, to succeed in hot and humid conditions in Brazil.

The Guardian - Sport

Old thinking about spheres of influence, trampling international law, must not succeed".

The Guardian

Our government might succeed in fooling us into believing that efficiency savings are not health cuts.

The Guardian

In order to get ahead, you have to take risks and if 70% of your gambles succeed, it's worth it.

The Guardian

Ofcom's decision, coming a day after the regulator admitted for the first time that it was "very unlikely" that all the local TV stations would succeed, casts further uncertainty over the future of loss-making London Live.

The Guardian

Even as Idol prepares to say farewell, its enduring effect on the pop culture landscape – and specifically in country music – will be felt for as long as its alumni continue to succeed.

The Guardian - Music

Mulligan's conviction that she could succeed as a performer resulted in an introduction to a casting director through Fellowes and then – to her family's surprise – a small but visible part in the 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, playing the "silly" fourth Bennet sister, Kitty.

The Guardian - Film

In an interview with Guardian Sustainable Business, Branson says he hopes the B Team will succeed where others have failed by harnessing the energy of a small group of respected leaders who have access to heads of state and other key opinion formers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "succeed", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately reflects the achievement. For instance, use "succeed" when referring to achieving a specific goal or objective, rather than general well-being.

Common error

Avoid using "succeed" as a generic term for doing well in life without a specific accomplishment in mind. Instead, reserve it for situations where a clear objective has been met. For example, it's better to say someone is "thriving" or "prospering" in their career, instead of just saying they "succeed".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "succeed" is as an intransitive verb, meaning it does not require a direct object. It describes the act of achieving a desired outcome or goal. As Ludwig AI confirms, it can be used to describe the attainment of a specific objective.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "succeed" is a versatile verb used to describe the achievement of a goal or objective. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. With a neutral register, it fits diverse contexts, predominantly appearing in News & Media sources. To enrich your writing, consider synonyms like "achieve success" or "accomplish a goal", and avoid overgeneralizing its scope. Remember, "succeed" typically implies a specific accomplishment rather than overall well-being.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

achieve success

This alternative explicitly mentions "success" as the outcome, whereas "succeed" is more direct.

accomplish a goal

This phrase emphasizes the completion of a specific target or objective.

attain a result

Focuses on reaching or obtaining a particular outcome, often implying effort.

prosper

Suggests thriving and flourishing, often in a broader or long-term sense.

flourish

Implies growth and development, often in a positive and vibrant manner.

triumph

Indicates a victory or overcoming a significant challenge or obstacle.

prevail

Suggests overcoming difficulties to achieve a positive outcome.

realize ambitions

Emphasizes the fulfillment of aspirations and long-term goals.

reach fruition

This alternative implies the completion and successful development of something.

be victorious

This alternative explicitly states a state of winning and achieving a desired outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "succeed" in a sentence?

You can use "succeed" to describe achieving a specific goal, such as "With hard work and dedication, I believe I can "succeed" in my career".

What can I say instead of "succeed"?

You can use alternatives like "achieve success", "accomplish a goal", or "attain a result" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "succeed in" or "succeed at"?

Both "succeed in" and "succeed at" are grammatically correct, but "succeed in" is more commonly used, especially when referring to a broader area or field. "Succeed at" is typically used for specific tasks or activities.

What's the difference between "succeed" and "prosper"?

"Succeed" implies achieving a specific goal or objective, while "prosper" suggests overall thriving and well-being in a more general sense.