Synonyms for shortcoming
Most common
Definitions
- n. 1
A deficiency or falling short; failure to attain a goal or ideal.
Forms
- Plural
- shortcomings → defects, lacks, deficiencies, failings…
Example sentences
- lack I had to leave out this problem for lack of space.
- failing I received a remark for failing to greet everyone.
- defect There must be a defect in the experimental method.
- deficiency AIDS means "Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome".
Popularity over time
| Word | 1850 → 2019 | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| shortcoming | steady | |
| lack | steady | |
| failing | steady | |
| defect | steady | |
| deficiency | falling |
Use in printed books, per decade from 1850 to 2019.
By length
- 3 letters
- sin1
- 4 letters
- lack1, flaw1
- 5 letters
- fault1, minus2, lapse1
- 6 letters
- defect2, foible2
- 7 letters
- failure2, failing2, frailty2
- 8 letters
- drawback2
- 9 letters
- infirmity4
- 10 letters
- deficiency4
- 11 letters
- defalcation
- 12 letters
- imperfection4
The small number after each word is its number of syllables (minus2 = 2 syllables).