fail an exam

Meaning

This expression means to not pass a test or examination because your score was below the required passing grade. It is a very common academic collocation used in schools, universities, and professional certification contexts. The tone is neutral but generally carries a disappointing connotation.

Examples

• I'm so worried that I'm going to fail an exam this semester.

  I'm so worried that I'm going to fail an exam this semester.

• If you fail an exam, you can usually retake it next month.

  If you fail an exam, you can usually retake it next month.

• She studied all night because she couldn't afford to fail an exam.

  She studied all night because she couldn't afford to fail an exam.

• He was devastated when he found out he failed the final exam.

  He was devastated when he found out he failed the final exam.

• To avoid failing an exam, it's best to start reviewing the material early.

  To avoid failing an exam, it's best to start reviewing the material early.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I lost my exam yesterday.

  ✓ I failed my exam yesterday.

  Learners often translate literally from their L1, but in English, 'lose' means you cannot physically find the paper. 'Fail' is the correct verb for not passing.

• ✗ He made a fail in the exam.

  ✓ He failed the exam.

  Fail is typically used directly as a verb in this context, not as a noun phrase like 'make a fail'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• She is studying hard because she doesn't want to ___.

  💡 The opposite of passing a test.

  Show answer

  fail an exam

• It's not the end of the world if you ___; you can always retake it.

  💡 To get a score below the passing mark.

  Show answer

  fail an exam