What does successful mean?
Successful is an adjective describing something that achieves a desired result, such as a plan, performance, or attempt. It can also describe a person or organization that has gained wealth, recognition, or influence. In the first sense, the word focuses on the outcome rather than the effort: a successful experiment achieves its intended objective, while an unsuccessful one does not. In the second, it carries a broader social implication of prosperity or standing. The term is common and neutral in British and American English. It is broader than simply being free from error, because success can involve meeting a goal, winning approval, or producing lasting results. Because the adjective can refer both to the result of an act and to a person's status, context determines which meaning is intended. Successful is especially useful when the emphasis is on the positive outcome of a purposeful undertaking.
adjectiveAchieving a desired result or outcome. It can also describe a person or organization that has attained wealth, recognition, or influence.
- Achieving a desired result or outcome.
- Having attained wealth, recognition, influence, or popular appeal.
"After several setbacks, the researchers announced a successful breakthrough."
"The surgery was successful, and the patient recovered fully."
"After years of difficult work, the designer became a successful international figure."
A successful result achieves an aim; a successful person may also be understood as someone who has prospered or gained recognition.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does successful come from?
Successful was formed in early 17th-century English by combining success with the suffix -ful, meaning characterized by or full of. The noun success came through Old French from Latin successus, meaning a result or outcome and also the past participle of succedere, “to follow or succeed.” Related English words include succeed, successor, and succession, all reflecting the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How successful is actually used
The word is common and generally neutral in British and American English. When applied to people or organizations, it can imply not only achievement but also financial prosperity or public status.
Easily confused with successful
Successful means achieving a desired result, whereas successive means coming or happening one after another.