unsuccessful

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A former Yale offensive lineman, he started his career as a high school football coach after an unsuccessful attempt to make the NFL and now describes himself as a “lifelong entrepreneur.”

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026

Sadler worked for Steyer in the final weeks of his presidential bid and scheduled $50 million of billionaire Rick Caruso’s money on ads during his unsuccessful 2022 Los Angeles mayoral campaign.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

Pollard was unsuccessful with three penalties in a row, keeping the gap at one point with seven minutes to play.

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

He sought "revenge" for the court defeat and a series of unsuccessful criminal complaints, and wanted to "continue to attract public and media attention", the prosecutor argued.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

My attempts at keeping the terror from my voice were unsuccessful, but Bob just pumped his hand up and down, kept his lids locked tight.

From "Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet" by Joanne Proulx