Failure is not an option.
Failure is not an option.
Meaning in plain English
The saying excludes failure from the available options. It expresses determination or the importance a speaker places on success.
Example
A team states its aim clearly while keeping a plan for difficulties that could prevent success.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The forceful declaration does not change what outcomes are possible. A useful reading distinguishes a commitment from a guarantee and leaves room for contingency planning or revised expectations. It should not make acknowledging a problem seem disloyal or forbidden.
When to use it
Use it to explain determined language without a prediction.
Keep in mind
Declaring failure unacceptable does not make it impossible.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- Contributor-provided proverb reference
Supplied reference A; unit 547; PDF page 79
Reuse and collection notes ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · supplied collection
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Contributor-confirmed reuse permission
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
Provenance and licences ↗