failing
/'feiliɳ/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun:
- A weakness or shortcoming in character or ability: A specific fault or deficiency in a person.
- An act of not meeting an expectation or standard: The instance or fact of failing to do something.
Adjective:
- Below an acceptable standard; unsuccessful: Used to describe something that does not meet the required level of performance.
- Declining or deteriorating in strength or vitality: (Less common) Describing a state of weakening.
Preposition:
- In the absence of; if not: Used to introduce a contingency or alternative if the primary option is not available.
Usage Examples
Noun: One of his major failings is his impatience.She was aware of her own failings and worked to improve.
Adjective: He received a failing grade on the exam.The failing light made it difficult to read.
Preposition: Failing a quick agreement, the negotiations will end. We will proceed with plan B, failing any new instructions.
Advanced Usage
- "Failing that...": A common phrase used to introduce an alternative plan or course of action if the first one is not possible.
Variants and Related Words
- Fail (verb): To be unsuccessful in achieving a goal or meeting a standard.
- Failure (noun): The state or act of not succeeding.
Synonyms
- Noun (for weakness): Flaw, defect, shortcoming, foible.
- Adjective: Unsatisfactory, inadequate, substandard.
- Preposition: In default of, in the absence of, lacking.
Related Phrases
- Without fail: Used to emphasize that something always happens or must happen.
Adjective
- below acceptable in performance
- received failing grades
Noun
- failure to reach a minimum required performance
- his failing the course led to his disqualification
- he got two flunks on his report
- a flaw or weak point
- he was quick to point out his wife's failings