Definition

In a way that does not achieve the desired result or goal.

Example

She tried to fix the car, but she did it unsuccessfully.

Conversation

I tried to fix my bike yesterday but I did it unsuccessfully.

Oh no! What went wrong with it?

I think I was just overthinking the problem and made it worse.

That happens to me too; sometimes it's better to just ask for help.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unsuccessfully → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "success" (from Latin "successus", meaning to come close or to follow after) and the suffix "-fully" (meaning in a manner). The word "unsuccessfully" means in a manner that does not achieve success.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') achieving 'success' — that's why 'unsuccessfully' means not achieving success.

Visually Confused Words