noun

der Erfolg, -e

success

Es bedeutet, dass man ein Ziel erreicht oder etwas gut schafft.

Definition & meaning

Erfolg means success: achieving a desired goal or having a favorable result. It can refer to success in a particular undertaking, or to someone’s broader achievement or standing.

It can also mean the result or effect of an action, though this use is less common in everyday English translation.

Grammar & word origin

Erfolg is a masculine noun: der Erfolg. Its plural is die Erfolge.

It is related to the verb folgen , meaning “to follow.” Historically, it referred to what follows from an action—its result or outcome.

Synonyms & antonyms

Ergebnis — “result” or “outcome.” More neutral than Erfolg; a result need not be favorable.
Errungenschaft — “achievement” or “accomplishment.” Emphasizes something valuable that has been attained through effort.
Gelingen — “success” or “successful completion.” Often describes an undertaking going well.
Misserfolg — “failure” or “lack of success”; the clearest antonym.
Niederlage — “defeat.” Applies especially to a contest, conflict, or competition, rather than to every kind of unsuccessful outcome.