Unsuccessfulnesses

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The state or condition of failing to achieve desired results on multiple occasions; repeated lack of success in efforts or endeavors; the quality of consistently not accomplishing goals
2. Experiencing multiple instances where plans or actions do not produce intended outcomes; characterized by continual unmet expectations; signifying a series of failures in performance or achievement
3. Marked by frequent inability to reach objectives; denoting several unsuccessful attempts or outcomes; reflecting persistent defeat or absence of success in different situations

Etymology: "Unsuccessfulnesses" is simply the plural of "unsuccessfulness," a noun built from "unsuccessful" plus the suffix "-ness," which turns an adjective into a noun meaning "the state or quality of being" that adjective. "Unsuccessful" itself combines the prefix "un-" (not) with "successful," from "success," which comes from Latin "successus," meaning an outcome or a going forward, from "succedere," to follow up or come after. The plural is the notable part. English speakers rarely pluralize abstract nouns like "happiness" or "kindness," because they name a single quality. Pluralizing "unsuccessfulness" treats the quality as countable, so each separate instance of failure becomes its own "unsuccessfulness." That is why the form turns up mostly in writing that deliberately tallies repeated setbacks, rather than in everyday speech.

Synonyms: failures, defeats, setbacks, disappointments

Antonyms: successes, achievements, victories, wins