Synonyms of foible

foible

noun

ˈfȯi-bəl 

as in weakness

a defect in character

could tolerate my uncle's foibles because we loved him dearly

Synonyms & Similar Words

• weakness
• fault
• shortcoming
• sin
• deficiency
• failing
• vice
• demerit
• frailty
• sinfulness
• feet of clay
• flaw
• evil
• dereliction
• imperfection
• blot
• stain
• blemish
• want
• minus
• nit
• corruption
• immorality
• soft spot
• spot
• wickedness
• depravity
• Achilles' heel

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• virtue
• merit
• excellence
• perfection
• integrity
• morality
• goodness
• righteousness
• rectitude
• probity

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun foible differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of foible are failing, fault, frailty, and vice. While all these words mean "an imperfection or weakness of character," foible applies to a harmless or endearing weakness or idiosyncrasy.

an eccentric's charming foibles

When could failing be used to replace foible?

While in some cases nearly identical to foible, failing suggests a minor shortcoming in character.

being late is a failing of mine

When can fault be used instead of foible?

The words fault and foible can be used in similar contexts, but fault implies a failure, not necessarily culpable, to reach some standard of perfection in disposition, action, or habit.

a writer of many virtues and few faults

Where would frailty be a reasonable alternative to foible?

The words frailty and foible are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, frailty implies a general or chronic proneness to yield to temptation.

human frailties

In what contexts can vice take the place of foible?

Although the words vice and foible have much in common, vice can be a general term for any imperfection or weakness, but it often suggests violation of a moral code or the giving of offense to the moral sensibilities of others.

compulsive gambling was his vice

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of foible

And there’s the trust factor: The Leafs seemed to get rid of Kadri, at least in part, because of his playoff, err, foibles. —Jonas Siegel, The Athletic, 22 Jan. 2025

Buy Now 05 of 15 'The Rachel Papers' by Martin Amis Adolescent angst and the foibles and follies that come with it have been a mainstay of fiction since the form began, and this one's a prime example. —Lizz Schumer, People.com, 26 Dec. 2024

The Difference Between a Good Market and a Great Market Job markets, like anything else, are susceptible to variations and inconsistencies, frailties and foibles. —Eli Amdur, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025

In an attempt to hang loose with the gang at a PMF, you may be exposed to gossipy whispers about the foibles, secrets or annoying idiosyncrasies of fellow execs or co-workers. —Dr. David Lenihan, Forbes, 2 Jan. 2025

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