Manque

usgb/mɑːŋˈkeɪ/
noun

A person who has failed to live up to their own potential or dreams.

Despite his talent, he remained a manqué, never achieving the success he desired.
Visual representation of "manque" - A person who has failed to live up to their own potential or dreams.

Often appears as...

  • failed artist manqué
  • scientist manqué

Usage tips

Formal

Literary

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "manque"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unfulfilled Potential

Use 'manqué' to express someone's unmet potential or dreams in a sympathetic or ironic manner.

Illustration for Unfulfilled Potential
A business manqué, she now teaches what could have been her practice.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Literary Nuance

'Manqué' often carries a literary or intellectual nuance, elegant in expressing regret for what might have been.

Illustration for Literary Nuance
He is known among friends as the poet manqué.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Implicit Critique

Can imply a critique, suggesting that despite opportunities, the individual did not achieve their aspirations.

Illustration for Implicit Critique
Although a manqué in her field, she found a new passion.
Visual representation of the word "Manque"

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