What Does “Flunk” Mean

“Flunk” means to fail something, especially a test, exam, or class. It can also mean to fail at doing something well.

People usually use “flunk” in school talk. For example, someone might say they flunked math if they got a very bad grade or did not pass the course. It can also be used more casually to mean someone failed badly at a task or situation.

Meaning & Usage

“Flunk” is a casual way to say “fail.” It is most common in school or college, but people may use it in everyday speech too.

Examples

“I flunked the exam.”

“He flunked chemistry last semester.”

“She flunked the interview because she was too nervous.”

Is “flunk” formal or informal?

It is informal. People use it in casual conversation more than in formal writing.

Can “flunk” be used outside school?

Yes. It can describe failing at other things too, like an interview, a test, or a task.

Is “flunk” the same as “fail”?

Yes, mostly. “Flunk” is just a more casual way to say “fail.”