What is succeed? Pronunciation and usage in English

succeed means . Learn how to pronounce and use succeed through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of succeed

succeedverb

/səkˈsiːd/
Definition & pronunciation of succeed

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "succeed" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /səkˈsiːd/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. sək (sounds like "suk") - This is a short, unstressed vowel sound. Your tongue should be relatively low in your mouth.
  2. ˈsiːd (sounds like "seed") - This is the stressed syllable.
    • ˈsiː (sounds like "see") - The "ee" sound as in "see"
    • d (sounds like "d") - A simple "d" sound.

Here's a helpful visualization:

  • Imagine starting with a soft "suk" sound. Then, emphasize the "see" sound a little more as you lengthen your vowel.

Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "succeed" like "suh-ceed." This is a very common mistake! The "ee" sound in the second syllable is key.
  • The 'd' at the end is pronounced. Don't drop it!
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to get the pronunciation right is to hear it. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "succeed" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/succeed/ (This website has pronunciations by native speakers from different regions)
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce succeed" on YouTube – you'll find many videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

Do you want me to:

  • Provide a phonetic transcription (a more technical way to represent the sounds)?
  • Give you some example sentences you can practice with?

Usage and examples with the word succeed in English

Let's break down how to use the word "succeed" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings and ways to incorporate it into your sentences.

1. Core Meaning: To Achieve a Goal

  • Definition: This is the most common use. "Succeed" means to achieve something you set out to do.
  • Examples:
    • "I succeeded in finishing the project on time." (I achieved my goal of finishing on time.)
    • "She succeeded in her efforts to get the promotion." (She achieved the result she was working for.)
    • "The company succeeded in expanding into new markets." (They achieved their goal of expansion.)

2. As a Verb (Action)

  • Forms: “Succeed” can be used as a regular verb.
    • Simple Past: “I succeeded.”
    • Past Participle: “I have succeeded.” (Used with auxiliary verbs like "have," "has," "had")
    • Present Participle: “I am succeeding.” (Used with "be" verbs - "I am succeeding in my studies.")

3. As an Adjective (Describing Success)

  • Definition: “Successful” describes something that has achieved success.
  • Examples:
    • “He is a successful businessman.” (He achieved success as a businessman.)
    • “That was a successful presentation.” (The presentation achieved the desired results.)
    • “We need a successful strategy.” (We need a plan that will lead to success.)

4. Related Phrases & Idioms

  • “To succeed in doing something”: This emphasizes the effort involved.
    • "He's trying to succeed in learning Spanish." (He's working hard to achieve fluency.)
  • “Succeed at something”: Similar to “succeed in doing something” – focusing on the accomplishment.
    • "She succeeds at painting portraits." (She is good at and achieves success with painting portraits.)
  • “To succeed with something”: Often used when there was a challenge or difficulty.
    • “They succeeded with the complicated surgery.” (They managed to complete the surgery successfully, despite its difficulty.)
  • "Succeed to (a title/position)": This means to inherit or take over a role.
    • "He succeeded his father as CEO."

5. Figurative/More Advanced Uses

  • “To succeed in life”: This refers to a general sense of fulfillment and happiness.
    • "She wants to succeed in life by making a difference." (She wants to find meaning and happiness.)

Tips for Using "Succeed" Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of “succeed” depends heavily on the context of the sentence.
  • Consider synonyms: Words like “achieve,” “accomplish,” “realize,” and “manage” can sometimes be used instead of “succeed,” depending on the nuance you want to convey.
  • Pay attention to verb tenses: Make sure you use the correct tense of “succeed” to match the timing of the action.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What specifically are you trying to use "succeed" in? (e.g., writing a sentence, understanding a specific passage, etc.)
  • Can you provide an example sentence you’re struggling with?

Synonyms for the word succeed

Idioms of the word succeed

nothing succeeds like success
(saying)when you are successful in one area of your life, it often leads to success in other areas

    Practice with vocabulary succeed

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. To truly ____ in today's competitive global market, businesses must prioritize innovation and customer satisfaction.
    2. Despite encountering several unexpected obstacles, the research team was determined to ____ in proving their hypothesis.
    3. The company aims to ____ its aggressive sales targets by the end of the fiscal year through strategic marketing campaigns.
    4. Many new startups unfortunately ____ within their first five years, often due to insufficient funding or a flawed business model.

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (select all that apply)

    1. To ____ academically, students need to develop effective study habits and time management skills. a) succeed b) excel c) advance d) progress

    2. Effective communication is crucial for any team to ____ in achieving its objectives. a) succeed b) accomplish c) prosper d) make progress

    3. The diplomatic efforts were expected to ____ in resolving the international dispute peacefully. a) succeed b) prevail c) fail d) collapse

    4. Her ability to ____ complex financial data into understandable reports was highly valued by the executive board. a) interpret b) convert c) summarize d) translate

    5. The committee needs to ____ that all safety regulations are strictly followed during the construction phase. a) ensure b) insure c) confirm d) verify

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. Original: The manager's innovative strategy resulted in the company achieving significant growth last quarter. Rewrite using a form of "succeed":

    2. Original: Despite numerous setbacks, the athlete accomplished her goal of winning the championship. Rewrite using "succeed":

    3. Original: The team is determined to finish the entire development phase by the deadline. Rewrite using a suitable replacement word (do not use "succeed" or its forms):

    Answer:

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. succeed
    2. succeed
    3. achieve / accomplish / meet
    4. fail

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. a) succeed, b) excel, c) advance, d) progress
    2. a) succeed, c) prosper, d) make progress
    3. a) succeed, b) prevail
    4. a) interpret, c) summarize, d) translate
    5. a) ensure, c) confirm, d) verify

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. The manager's innovative strategy led to the company's successful growth last quarter. (or: The manager's innovative strategy helped the company succeed in achieving significant growth last quarter.)
    2. Despite numerous setbacks, the athlete managed to succeed in winning the championship.
    3. The team is determined to complete the entire development phase by the deadline. (Other possible answers: conclude, finalize)

    Comment ()