Student missing the first tough question is a failure (5)

I believe the answer is:

loser

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'is a failure' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for loser that I've seen before include "One who is (always) unsuccessful" , "One frequently failing" , "Defeated contestant" , "Winner's opponent" , "No-hoper" .)

I've seen this clue in The Hindu.

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