A2adjective1K

Successful

UK /["/səkˈsesfl/"]/US /["/səkˈsesfl/"]/

Definition

achieving your aims or what was intended

In simple words: Doing well or achieving goals.

Examples

  • She felt successful after finishing her degree.
  • His successful business venture earned him a lot of money.
  • A successful leader inspires and motivates their team.
  • To be successful, you must set clear goals.
  • Their project was successful beyond their expectations.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. It's appropriate for discussing achievements, such as in business or personal life, but less suitable for casual conversations without context.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'succeed' plus 'full' — a successful person is full of success.

Collocations

  • be
  • prove
  • appear
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • at
  • in
  • be
  • prove
  • appear
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • at
  • in

Synonyms

  • prosperous
  • triumphant
  • victorious
  • effective
  • thriving

Antonyms

  • unsuccessful
  • failure
  • ineffective

Common mistakes

  • Using 'success' as an adjective instead of 'successful'.
  • Confusing with 'succession'.