think failure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "think failure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one is encouraged to consider the concept of failure, often in discussions about risk, learning, or personal growth. Example: "In order to succeed, sometimes you need to think failure and learn from your mistakes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

And every now and then, I think failure is the most ingredient for success".

Independent

I think failure is a much bigger  motivator for me than success.

Independent

In three years no stranger ever talked to me … Do people think failure is infectious?

The Guardian - Books

If this is success, what does Osborne think failure looks like?

The Guardian

"But six years of being the producer of FailCon," she says, "and I still think failure hurts like a bitch".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I don't know about Pink, but I think failure to hear can work as a response only for a while.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

It's not that these experts don't think failures occur - they are aware of them.

The Guardian - Books

A public insurance alternative that's available to everyone offers a tiny ray of hope, but not if it's hamstrung to look and behave like insurers in the private sector — think failures of Medicare Advantage.

The New York Times

She said, "I think failures, if we're able to move past them, provide the greatest opportunities to develop strength, insight, and wisdom".

Huffington Post

"I thought failure was total and permanent — and success stamped me as a worthwhile business person".

The New York Times

An October 2nd CNN poll found that 52percentt of Republicans thought failure to raise the debt ceiling would be "a good thing" (64percentt of Tea-party supporters shared this sentiment).

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "think failure" when you want to emphasize the importance of considering potential negative outcomes to better prepare for challenges and mitigate risks.

Common error

Avoid framing "think failure" solely in a negative light. It can be a proactive strategy for learning and growth, rather than a sign of pessimism. Balance it with positive planning and resilience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "think failure" functions as a verb phrase encouraging consideration of negative outcomes. According to Ludwig, the expression is used in contexts related to evaluating potential problems and preparing for challenges.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "think failure" encourages active consideration of potential setbacks to inform planning and decision-making. While the expression is grammatically correct, Ludwig suggests it's more about proactive risk assessment than negativity. Found primarily in news and media sources, the phrase prompts careful analysis of vulnerabilities. Alternatives include "consider failure" or "reflect on failure", and using this phrase well involves balancing potential problems with positive solutions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

consider failure

Focuses on a deliberate act of evaluating failure.

contemplate failure

Emphasizes a deeper, more thoughtful reflection on failure.

reflect on failure

Highlights the act of looking back and learning from past failures.

analyze failure

Stresses a structured and methodical examination of failure.

examine failure

Suggests a close and detailed inspection of failure.

view failure

Presents failure as something to be regarded from a specific perspective.

perceive failure

Highlights the subjective way in which failure is understood.

regard failure

Implies a specific attitude or opinion toward failure.

assess failure

Centers on evaluating the extent and impact of failure.

interpret failure

Focuses on understanding the underlying reasons and meaning of failure.

FAQs

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

You can use "think failure" to encourage proactive planning, for example: "To avoid future setbacks, it's crucial to "think failure" and identify potential pitfalls in our strategy."

What's a good alternative to "think failure"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "consider potential setbacks", "analyze possible pitfalls", or "assess risks" to replace "think failure".

Is it always negative to "think failure"?

Not necessarily. "Think failure" can be a constructive approach to identify vulnerabilities and strengthen strategies. It's about preparing for challenges, not dwelling on negativity.

How does "think failure" help in decision-making?

By prompting you to anticipate potential negative outcomes and plan accordingly, "think failure" enhances your ability to make informed and resilient decisions.