trifecta: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, journalistic
Quick answer
What does “trifecta” mean?
A bet in horse racing where one must pick the first three finishers in exact order.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A bet in horse racing where one must pick the first three finishers in exact order.
Any instance of three significant achievements, successes, or events occurring together, especially when they form a satisfying or impressive combination.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The gambling sense is more common in US racing; the metaphorical use is prevalent in both varieties but more frequent in American English. In the UK, 'triple' is a more common alternative for the metaphorical sense.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes a notable and often positive achievement. In US sports and business contexts, it's a strong, idiomatic term for a three-part success.
Frequency
Much more frequent in American English across all registers. In British English, its use is growing, primarily in journalism and business writing.
Grammar
How to Use “trifecta” in a Sentence
[verb] a trifecta (achieve, complete, hit)a trifecta of [noun phrase] (a trifecta of victories)the [adjective] trifecta (the perfect trifecta)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “trifecta” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The team trifecta'd their way to the championship with wins in sprint, relay, and marathon.
American English
- He managed to trifecta his investments with gains in stocks, bonds, and real estate.
adjective
British English
- It was a trifecta victory for the campaign, securing funding, public support, and media coverage.
American English
- They celebrated a trifecta day with a promotion, a new house, and great weather.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used to describe achieving three key business goals simultaneously (e.g., 'increasing revenue, market share, and customer satisfaction').
Academic
Rare; may appear in sociology or economics to describe a convergence of three factors.
Everyday
Informally describes any three desirable things happening together (e.g., 'sun, sea, and sand—the holiday trifecta').
Technical
Primarily in gambling/racing terminology.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “trifecta”
- Using it for any group of three (it requires significance or achievement).
- Spelling as 'trifectra' or 'tryfecta'.
- Using it in overly formal contexts.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While it originates from horse race betting, its dominant modern use is metaphorical, describing any significant trio of achievements or events.
A 'hat-trick' specifically refers to three consecutive achievements by one person (often in sports, like three goals). A 'trifecta' refers to three co-occurring significant items or events, not necessarily by one agent or in immediate succession.
Yes, it can be used ironically or sarcastically to describe a combination of three negative things (e.g., 'a trifecta of disasters'). However, the core connotation remains one of a notable, complete set.
No. It is considered informal or journalistic. In formal writing, alternatives like 'triad', 'triple', or 'threefold achievement' are often preferred.
A bet in horse racing where one must pick the first three finishers in exact order.
Trifecta: in British English it is pronounced /traɪˈfɛk.tə/, and in American English it is pronounced /traɪˈfɛk.tə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “hit the trifecta”
- “complete the trifecta”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'TRY' + 'PERFECT' - 'PER' + 'A' = TRIFECTA. You TRY to get a PERFECT three-part result, and if you do, you get an 'A' grade.
Conceptual Metaphor
ACHIEVEMENT IS A WINNING BET / COMPLETENESS IS A SET OF THREE.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'trifecta' LEAST appropriate?