Meaning and Usage
The word 失敗 (しっぱい) means "failure" or "mistake" and is commonly used to describe unsuccessful attempts or errors in various contexts such as exams, plans, or actions. It is a noun but often appears with verbs like する (to do) to form the verb phrase 失敗する (to fail).
Common Collocations
- 失敗する: to fail
- 失敗に終わる: to end in failure
- 大きな失敗: a big failure
- 失敗を恐れる: to fear failure
These collocations are frequently used in both casual and formal situations.
Nuances and Register
失敗 is neutral in tone and can be used in everyday conversation as well as in written language. It does not carry a harsh or judgmental tone by itself but simply states that something did not succeed.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 失敗 with ミス (mistake), but 失敗 often implies a more significant failure or unsuccessful outcome, while ミス can refer to smaller errors or slips. Use 失敗 when referring to broader failures or unsuccessful attempts.
Practical Tips
When talking about personal experiences, you can say 試験に失敗した (I failed the exam) or 失敗から学ぶ (learn from failure). This word is useful for expressing setbacks and encouraging perseverance.