short of

preposition

: other than
especially : of a lesser degree than
had few options short of replacing the motor

Examples of short of in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The Philadelphia Phillies know this offseason is one of the biggest in recent years after coming up short of expectations in the playoffs. Drew Vonscio, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Oct. 2025 His administration has already made clear through its Department of Government Efficiency that slashing the federal bureaucracy is a major priority, though that group’s cuts have fallen short of its initial goals. Kevin Breuninger, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2025 Even when a child seems panicked and short of breath, their body might still be getting enough oxygen. Melissa Willets, Parents, 14 Oct. 2025 Three senators who caucus with Democrats joined Republicans to support the bill, but the 55-45 majority was short of the 60-vote majority needed to end the debate. Bart Jansen, USA Today, 13 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for short of

Word History

First Known Use

1560, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of short of was in 1560

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Cite this Entry

“Short of.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/short%20of. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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