What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dud
Example
The firework was a dud and didn't explode. [dud: noun]
Example
The new employee turned out to be a dud and couldn't handle the job. [dud: adjective]
failure
Example
The project was a failure and did not meet the company's expectations. [failure: noun]
Example
She felt like a failure after not passing the exam. [failure: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Failure is more commonly used than dud in everyday language. Failure is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while dud is less common and refers to specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dud and failure?
Both dud and failure can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, failure is a more serious term and may be more appropriate in formal settings.