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shortcoming

shortcoming

69 3.7
A weakness that makes a person or thing less effective
  • noun
  • /ˈʃɔrtˌkʌmɪŋ/
translation icon : deficiencia
  • But personal shortcomings notwithstanding, he was a warm, gentle person, and I thought a lot of him.
  • address shortcomings
  • identify shortcomings
  • compensate for shortcomings

I mean, he is clearly trying to make up for his shortcomings on every level.

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Examples

  • You know, I would, I would tell you that my shortcoming is I don't expect enough.

  • Her main shortcoming is that she often procrastinates on important tasks.

  • Do you know what a difference it would make if each of you were to admit a shortcoming and said you were sorry?

  • I mean, he is clearly trying to make up for his shortcomings on every level.

  • And it made me recognize how my shortcomings have hurt you.

  • Forgive him his shortcomings and thank him for all of his love and care.

  • Many people try to pick up the shortcomings of their high performers to keep them in line.

  • - With all its shortcomings, I believe this city of ours gives us much cause for pride.

  • Digital TV has none of these shortcomings and offers some amazing bonuses as well.

    Academic text (1999)
  • I feel I must observe that there have been some serious shortcomings in the marketing department over at The Auk.

Synonyms

weakness
vsshortcoming
344 1.7

A fault in a person or thing that makes them less effective

implies a general lack of strength rather than a specific fault
defect
vsshortcoming
150 3.4

A fault that makes something less useful or valuable

is a more general fault that reduces adequacy or effectiveness
flaw
vsshortcoming
113 3.3

A weakness in a person's character that causes problems

applies to faults broadly, not restricted to personal character issues
failing
vsshortcoming
34 3.5

A weakness in a person's character or a plan

means the same and is used in the same situations
weak point
vsshortcoming
12 3.0

A part of a person or thing that is not strong and can cause problems

refers to any fault, not only specific vulnerable aspects
Achilles' heel
vsshortcoming
  • Informal
11 6.3

A small but serious weakness in someone or something that can cause failure

is a general fault that need not be small or decisive
lameness
vsshortcoming
  • Slang
1 6.2

A weak, unconvincing argument or excuse

refers to a specific fault or weakness rather than the general defective quality

Antonyms

2.8

Something that helps a person do better than others

336 2.8

A skill or quality someone has that helps them do well

How Serious

defect
150 3.4
shortcoming
69 3.7
flaw
131 3.0
limitation
167 3.3

Surface Forms

shortcoming singular
shortcomings plural

Etymology

Shortcoming is made of two simple parts: short meaning 'not enough' and coming meaning 'reaching' or 'arriving'. So a shortcoming is something that 'falls short' of what is needed, a fault or weakness that makes someone or something less able.