Without fail means always, every single time: she checks the greenhouse every evening without fail. In a request, it's a firm make sure: return the form by Tuesday without fail. It also describes a reliable effect: that recording makes him laugh without fail.
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do something every ... without fail; must ... without fail; ... by a deadline without fail
- She checks the greenhouse every evening without fail.
- Please return the signed form by Tuesday without fail.
- That recording makes my grandfather laugh without fail.
What changed
First versionHe calls his sister every Sunday without fails.
RevisionHe calls his sister every Sunday without fail.
The action happens every Sunday, so a plural fails can seem logical. But in this phrase fail is a fixed noun that never changes: without fail, however many times something happens.
Usually allows exceptions. Without fail allows none. In a request, without fail sounds insistent, close to an order; a softer option is please make sure you...
Your turn
This is essential, not optional: Bring the original document tomorrow without ___.
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fail — The phrase is fixed as without fail. Failed is a participle and doesn't fit.
Tell about a habit you keep without ever skipping it. Use without fail.
The caretaker locks the side gate at sunset without fail.
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