failing

1 of 2

noun

fail·​ing ˈfā-liŋ 

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

failing

2 of 2

preposition

: in absence or default of

failing specific instructions, use your own judgment

Synonyms

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

Its digital failings look even more stark by comparison. —Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 9 Aug. 2025

Woodland, who had surgery in September 2023 to remove a brain tumor, remains optimistic about his future in golf despite his failing to qualify for the playoffs. —Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 5 Aug. 2025

Addiction is a complex, chronic brain disease, not a moral failing, and effective treatment provides the tools and support needed for lasting recovery. —Eric Wood, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025

After Manchester City’s extra-time defeat to Al Hilal in the round of 16 at the Club World Cup at the start of this month, their new captain Bernardo Silva provided a damning diagnosis of his team’s failings. —Thom Harris, New York Times, 24 July 2025

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