Underachieve - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To underachieve means to perform below one’s potential or expected level, often resulting in poorer outcomes than what one is capable of achieving. It implies falling short of goals or standards.
underachieve
Definition:
To perform below expectations or potential, often academically or professionally.
Synonyms:
underperform, fall short, disappoint
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
excel, surpass
Common Collocations:
academic performance, potential, expectations, goals
Derivatives:
underachiever, underachievement
Usage Tips:
Use "underachieve" to describe someone not meeting expected standards despite capability.
Common Phrases:
chronic underachiever, underachieve in school, underachieve at work
Etymology:
Derived from "under-" (below) + "achieve" (succeed), first recorded in the early 20th century.
Examples:
- 1. She tends to underachieve in math despite her intelligence.
- 2. Many students underachieve when they lack motivation.
- 3. The team didn’t want to underachieve this season.
- 4. He fears he might underachieve in his new role.