Why was the success of the attack on Pearl Harbor considered great but not total?

Answer 1

The attack on Pearl harbour was not considered total because the Air Craft Carriers stationed at the harbour were not present at the time of the attack. Those same carriers proved essential in the Pacific victories of the Allies later in the war.

Answer 2

The attack on Pearl Harbor was considered great because it dealt a severe blow to the United States' Pacific Fleet, destroying or damaging numerous warships and aircraft. However, it was not considered total because the attack did not completely destroy the United States' naval capabilities or infrastructure at Pearl Harbor. The U.S. aircraft carriers, which were the primary target of the attack, were out at sea and therefore survived unharmed, allowing the U.S. to rebuild and retaliate in the Pacific War.