/læk əv səkˈsɛs/
"Lack of success" refers to a situation where an individual or group does not achieve the desired results or objectives. It is often used in contexts discussing personal goals, business outcomes, or any scenario where expectations are not met. This phrase is relatively common in both spoken and written English, especially in discussions involving performance, achievement, or evaluation.
Команда столкнулась с отсутствием успеха, несмотря на свои тяжелые усилия.
His lack of success in the competition motivated him to train harder.
Его отсутствие успеха на соревнованиях побудило его тренироваться усерднее.
They addressed the lack of success in the project's initial phase during the meeting.
Although "lack of success" itself is not predominantly featured in idiomatic expressions, there are several related phrases that convey a similar sentiment:
Его новый комедийный номер не произвел впечатления на зрителей.
Come up short - To fail to meet a standard or requirement.
После всех усилий они не смогли добиться победы в чемпионате.
Miss the mark - To be unsuccessful in achieving a goal or expectation.
Маркетинговая стратегия не оправдала ожиданий, что привело к слабым продажам.
Bite the dust - To fail or be defeated, particularly in a dramatic way.
К сожалению, стартап потерпел поражение всего через год.
Not make the grade - To fail to meet the required standard.
The word "lack" originates from the Old English word "lac," meaning "gift" or "offering," which came from the Germanic root. "Success" comes from the Latin word "successus," meaning "an outcome, result," derived from "succedere," which means "to come after." The combination of these terms reflects the absence of a positive outcome.