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

1. a failing or deficiency
   • that interpretation is an unfortunate defect of our lack of information