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Grammar fix

successful career

good job path

A period of working life where someone achieves their goals, earns respect, and feels satisfied with their job and progress.

collocationB2common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • She has built a successful career in engineering over the past ten years.work
  • In my opinion, education is the key to having a successful career, because it opens up more opportunities.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: have/build/pursue a successful career (in something)

WrongHe did a successful career in law.

RightHe had a successful career in law.

You HAVE a career, not 'do' one.

Patternhave/build/pursue a successful career (in something)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff He has enjoyed a highly accomplished professional trajectory.

Natural He's had a successful career.

Natural; 'accomplished professional trajectory' is CV-speak.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • a successful career in
    inhavebuildpursue

Don't confuse it

A 'successful career' is about long-term achievement, not just having a job or getting a promotion.

Try it in Daily Speak →