shortcoming

noun

short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkə-miŋ 

ˌshȯrt-ˈkə-

: an imperfection or lack that detracts from the whole

also : the quality or state of being flawed or lacking

Synonyms

• demerit
• dereliction
• failing
• fault
• foible
• frailty
• sin
• vice
• want
• weakness

Examples of shortcoming in a Sentence

Her lack of attention to detail is her biggest shortcoming.

The main shortcoming of this camera is that it uses up batteries quickly.

Recent Examples on the Web

Paulson said Trump could compensate for shortcomings in the U.S. budget through tariffs and reducing excessive spending, Bloomberg reported. —Antonio Pequeño Iv, Forbes, 5 Sep. 2024

Seeing it as a shortcoming may motivate someone to react quickly to engage their attention to feel less frustrated and guilty, Rutledge said. —Madeline Holcombe, CNN, 19 Aug. 2024

The starting pitching’s volatility has magnified the shortcomings of the relievers. —Dylan Hernández, Los Angeles Times, 12 Aug. 2024

Ongoing issues with Boeing’s Starliner spaceship have been front and center this summer, but a new government report highlights other shortcomings of the company's aerospace work. —Denise Chow, NBC News, 9 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

shortcoming

noun

short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkəm-iŋ 

(ˈ)shȯrt-ˈkəm-

: fault entry 1 sense 1b