Langimage
English

underachievement

|un/der/a/chieve/ment|

B2

/ˌʌndərəˈtʃiːvmənt/

performing below potential

Etymology
Etymology Information

'underachievement' originates from the prefix 'under-' meaning 'below' and the word 'achievement' from Old French 'achevement', which meant 'completion'.

Historical Evolution

'underachievement' was formed by combining 'under-' with 'achievement' in modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'performing below potential', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the condition of performing below one's potential or expectations.

Despite his potential, his academic record was marked by underachievement.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/12 17:36