failing

noun

fail·ing | \ ˈfā-liŋ

Definition of failing

(Entry 1 of 2)

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

failing

preposition

Definition of failing (Entry 2 of 2)

: in absence or default of failing specific instructions, use your own judgment

Synonyms & Antonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about failing

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Synonyms & Antonyms for failing

Synonyms: Noun

demerit, dereliction, fault, foible, frailty, shortcoming, sin, vice, want, weakness

Antonyms: Noun

merit, virtue

Choose the Right Synonym for failing

Noun

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

Microsoft promoted its Books tab simply through the Store app, without any overt marketing of its contents or any deals within—unfortunately, a somewhat typical Microsoft failing. — Mark Hachman, PCWorld, "Microsoft has closed its e-bookstore, and everything you purchased will vanish in July," 2 Apr. 2019 The Fed’s search for the neutral rate suffers significant failings. — Kevin Warsh, WSJ, "The Fault Lies in R-Star and in Ourselves," 25 Sep. 2018 But Scottie’s obliviousness to his own professional failings speaks to his egomania, and the artifice of his situation. — John Anderson, WSJ, "The Heights of Obsession," 22 Feb. 2019 Her focus has been on education, wealth inequalities throughout the state and infrastructure failings, including the crumbling subway in New York City. — Katie Honan, WSJ, "Cynthia Nixon’s Latest Role: Gubernatorial Candidate Looking for an Upset," 9 Sep. 2018 The true stars here, though, are the failings of human nature. — Todd Vanderwerff, Vox, "HBO imports an incredibly dark, starkly funny comedy.," 20 Nov. 2018 When Wilson, a once-successful stockbroker, descended into alcoholism in the 1920s and 30s, addiction was largely regarded as a moral failing, a crime, a sin — or all three. — Gillian Brockell, Washington Post, "Lost for decades, the Alcoholics Anonymous original manuscript will be auctioned for millions," 9 Mar. 2018 When Wilson, a once-successful stockbroker, descended into alcoholism in the 1920s and 30s, addiction was largely regarded as a moral failing, a crime, a sin - or all three. — Gillian Brockell, chicagotribune.com, "Lost for decades, Alcoholics Anonymous manuscript to be auctioned for millions," 9 Mar. 2018 Most people recognize that addiction is a problem in our country, but too many people think of it as a character flaw, as a bad choice, as a moral failing. — Susan Spencer, Woman's Day, "The U.S. Surgeon General Wants To Change How We Think About Drug Addiction," 8 Sep. 2016

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'failing.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.