Another Word for Success: 16 Synonyms with Examples
Success means achieving what you set out to do, or gaining wealth or fame; it can also be a person or thing that does well. Swap it to suggest a single win, a big hit or lasting prosperity.
As a noun: achieving an aim
- achievement
- accomplishment
- triumph
- victory
- attainment
- win
As a noun: wealth, fame or prosperity
- prosperity
- fame
- fortune
- wealth
- eminence
- recognition
As a noun: something or someone that does well
- hit
- triumph
- winner
- sensation
- best-seller
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- achievement
- Something done through effort and skill.
- accomplishment
- Similar to achievement; slightly more formal.
- triumph
- A great or celebrated success.
- victory
- Success in a contest, battle or election.
- prosperity
- Financial success over a period of time.
- hit
- A popular film, song or product; informal.
Example sentences
- achievement: Finishing the marathon was a huge achievement for her.
- accomplishment: The new bridge is a remarkable engineering accomplishment.
- triumph: The concert was a triumph for the young conductor.
- victory: The team celebrated their first victory of the season.
- prosperity: The railway brought prosperity to the valley.
- hit: The show was an instant hit with audiences.
Opposite of success
- failure
- defeat
- flop
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “success”. Check the meaning before you use one.
noun: achiever
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “success”?
The most useful alternatives are “achievement”, “accomplishment”, “triumph”, “victory”, “attainment”. For the main sense (achieving an aim), “achievement” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “achievement” and “accomplishment”?
achievement: Something done through effort and skill. accomplishment: Similar to achievement; slightly more formal.
What is the opposite of “success”?
Common antonyms are “failure”, “defeat”, “flop”.