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What is the Meaning of “Successful”?

Successful
/səkˈsɛsfəl/

When you achieve what you wanted.

Definition of Successful

Quick Meaning of Successful

When you achieve what you wanted.

Detailed Definition of Successful

Having achieved your goal or purpose.

How to Pronounce Successful

IPA: /səkˈsɛsfəl/
suc cess ful

Stress pattern: Oos (3-syllable word).

Full pronunciation guide for “successful” →

How to Use Successful in a Sentence

Each example shows “successful” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “She had a successful career in medicine.”
    B1 written
  • “The project was very successful.”
    B1 daily
  • “Successful athletes practice daily.”
    B2 formal

Synonyms and Antonyms of Successful

Common Synonyms for Successful

Smart Synonyms for Successful — When to Use Each

accomplished
achieved or completed something well
victorious
won a competition or contest
thriving
growing and doing very well

See all synonyms for “successful” →

Common Collocations with Successful

These phrases pair with “successful” in everyday English:

  • successful career
  • successful business
  • very successful
  • most successful
  • successful outcome

Common Mistakes When Using Successful

Even fluent speakers slip up with “successful”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: He have successful results.
✓ Correct: He has successful results.
Why: 3rd person singular needs 'has'.
✗ Wrong: successful at do it
✓ Correct: successful at doing it
Why: Use gerund form after preposition 'at'.

Frequently Asked Questions About Successful

What is the meaning of "Successful"?

When you achieve what you wanted.

How do you pronounce "Successful"?

The IPA is /səkˈsɛsfəl/.

What part of speech is "Successful"?

"Successful" is an adjective at B1 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Successful"?

Common synonyms include accomplished, victorious, thriving.

How do you use "Successful" in a sentence?

For example: "She had a successful career in medicine."

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