How to Pronounce Failing

To pronounce "failing", say FAIL-ing — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈfeɪ.lɪŋ/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

failing

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Accent

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2

Syllables

7

Letters

/ˈfeɪ.lɪŋ/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “failing”

"failing" has 2 syllables: fail-ing. It rhymes with prevailing and wailing, if that helps it stick.

What does failing mean?

verb

  1. To be unsuccessful.

    “Throughout my life, I have always failed.”

  2. Not to achieve a particular stated goal. (Usage note: The direct object of this word is usually an infinitive.)

    “The truck failed to start.”

noun

  1. Weakness; defect

    “His worst failing is his temper.”

preposition

  1. If the preferred or prior option is not possible

    “A large proportion of the females employed in other firms are said to have signified their intention of going on strike, failing a settlement.”

Synonyms

fall on one's faceflunk

Antonyms

succeed

Words that rhyme with failing

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

prevailingwailingunveilingtrailingunavailingflailingtailingrailingsailingveilingimpalingscaling

Related words

weaknessunsatisfactoryunsuccessfuldeterioratingdecliningretrograderegressingretrogressive

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "failing"?▾

"Failing" has 2 syllables: fail · ing.

What is the IPA transcription of "failing"?▾

The IPA transcription of "failing" is /ˈfeɪ.lɪŋ/.

What does "failing" mean?▾

Failing: To be unsuccessful.

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