failing

1 of 3

noun

fail·​ing ˈfā-liŋ 

: a usually slight or insignificant defect in character, conduct, or ability

failing

2 of 3

preposition

: in absence or default of

failing specific instructions, use your own judgment

failing

3 of 3

present participle of fail entry 1

Synonyms of failing

Noun

• fault
• weakness
• shortcoming
• sin
• deficiency

Choose the Right Synonym for failing

fault, failing, frailty, foible, vice mean an imperfection or weakness of character.

fault implies a failure, not necessarily culpable, to reach some standard of perfection in disposition, action, or habit.

a writer of many virtues and few faults

failing suggests a minor shortcoming in character.

being late is a failing of mine

frailty implies a general or chronic proneness to yield to temptation.

human frailties

foible applies to a harmless or endearing weakness or idiosyncrasy.

an eccentric's charming foibles

vice can be a general term for any imperfection or weakness, but it often suggests violation of a moral code or the giving of offense to the moral sensibilities of others.

compulsive gambling was his vice

Examples of failing in a Sentence

Noun

He has some minor failings.

we could talk about your failings, but it would take all night

Preposition

Failing progress in the peace process, war seems likely.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Following Tuesday’s inquest, Metropolitan Police said that an internal review had found failings in its investigation into Heklina’s death but disputed claims that homophobia played a part in how its investigation was handled. — Luke Chinman, PEOPLE, 17 Sep. 2026

The offensive line’s failings played a major role in Green Bay blowing a 22-10 lead, continuing a habit that haunted the Packers last season. — ABC News, 14 Sep. 2026

Chelsea’s lack of control in midfield was a factor in their failing to pose much of a threat in the opening 45 minutes. — Simon Johnson, New York Times, 10 Sep. 2026

In most other films, these narrow constraints would be unequivocal failings. — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 9 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1590, in the meaning defined above

Preposition

1810, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing failing

• failing grade/mark
• failing that

Rhymes for failing

• ailing
• bailing
• baling
• flailing
• grayling
• hailing
• jailing
• mailing
• nailing
• paling
• railing
• sailing

Kids Definition

failing

1 of 2 noun

fail·​ing ˈfā-liŋ 

: weakness sense 2, shortcoming

failing

2 of 2 preposition

: in the absence or lack of

failing specific instructions, use your own judgment