shortcoming
/ʃɔ:t'kʌmiɳ/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun A fault or weakness; a deficiency or failing in a person, system, thing, or process. It implies a failure to meet a certain standard or expectation.
Usage
The word "shortcoming" is used to identify and discuss specific deficiencies. It is a formal and objective term, often used in evaluations, critiques, and analyses. It is typically followed by "of" (e.g., a shortcoming of the system) or "in" (e.g., a shortcoming in the design).
Examples
- The main shortcoming of the report was its lack of recent data.
- Despite his many talents, he was aware of his own shortcomings.
- The committee discussed the plan's shortcomings in detail before approving it.
Advanced Usage
- "to overcome a shortcoming": to successfully address or compensate for a weakness.
- The new software update aims to overcome the previous version's shortcomings.
- "inherent shortcoming": a weakness that is a fundamental or built-in part of something.
- The inherent shortcoming of the method is its reliance on subjective judgment.
Variants and Related Words
- Shortfall (n): A deficit or amount by which something, especially a sum of money, falls short.
- There was a significant budget shortfall this quarter.
- Shortcoming does not have a direct verb form. The concept is expressed with verbs like "to lack," "to fall short," or "to be deficient."
Synonyms
- Defect: An imperfection that impairs worth or utility.
- Fault: A responsibility for something wrong; an imperfection or flaw.
- Failing: A weakness, especially in character.
- Drawback: A feature that renders something less acceptable; a disadvantage.
Antonyms
- Strength
- Advantage
- Asset
- Merit
Related Phrases
- "to point out a shortcoming": to identify or mention a deficiency.
- The auditor was careful to point out every financial shortcoming.
- "glaring shortcoming": a very obvious and significant weakness.
- The glaring shortcoming in their argument was the complete absence of evidence.
Noun
- a failing or deficiency
- that interpretation is an unfortunate defect of our lack of information