shortcoming
noun
short·com·ing
ˈshȯrt-ˌkə-miŋ 
ˌshȯrt-ˈkə-
: an imperfection or lack that detracts from the whole
also
: the quality or state of being flawed or lacking
Examples of shortcoming in a Sentence
Her lack of attention to detail is her biggest shortcoming.
The main shortcoming of this camera is that it uses up batteries quickly.
Recent Examples on the Web
According to industry experts, teachers have often become the shock absorbers of systemic shortcomings, and students are among those most affected by the resulting gaps in engagement and preparation for future challenges.
—
Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 17 Feb. 2026
Jagged shards of memory shown in flashbacks suggest Laura’s fear and vulnerability as a young girl (played by the filmmakers’ daughter Eliz Mundruczó), alongside indications of narcissistic, at times violent Ivan’s shortcomings as a parent.
—David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 16 Feb. 2026
Its only real shortcoming is that not all the actors are at McShane’s level, and as Catherine, Angela Scoular unfortunately lacks the range to keep up with her Heathcliff.
—Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 16 Feb. 2026
Ted is a cartoon creep with an Oxbridge hauteur, but Theo’s shortcomings may be too subtly rendered for a play that cries out for more definition.
—Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for shortcoming
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 17 Feb. 2026
Jagged shards of memory shown in flashbacks suggest Laura’s fear and vulnerability as a young girl (played by the filmmakers’ daughter Eliz Mundruczó), alongside indications of narcissistic, at times violent Ivan’s shortcomings as a parent.
—David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 16 Feb. 2026
Its only real shortcoming is that not all the actors are at McShane’s level, and as Catherine, Angela Scoular unfortunately lacks the range to keep up with her Heathcliff.
—Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 16 Feb. 2026
Ted is a cartoon creep with an Oxbridge hauteur, but Theo’s shortcomings may be too subtly rendered for a play that cries out for more definition.
—Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for shortcoming
Cite this Entry
“Shortcoming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shortcoming. Accessed 19 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
shortcoming
noun
short·com·ing
ˈshȯrt-ˌkəm-iŋ
(ˈ)shȯrt-ˈkəm-
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
