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

Synonyms of shortcoming

• weakness
• fault
• sin
• deficiency
• failing

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

Google even subtly mocked the iPhone’s AI shortcomings in ads promoting the release of its latest Pixel phone last summer. —Michael Liedtke, Fortune, 12 Jan. 2026

That is a conceptual challenge, or shortcoming, that can only be overcome with both some background knowledge on the works and a bit of meandering around the Golden Triangle neighborhood. —Ray Mark Rinaldi, Denver Post, 12 Jan. 2026

For Buzelis’ shortcomings, Donovan demonstrates a short leash. —Joel Lorenzi, New York Times, 11 Jan. 2026

When evaluating the defensive shortcomings from this past season, Schottenheimer has pointed at the lack of takeaways multiple times. —Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for shortcoming

• becoming
• forthcoming
• homecoming
• incoming
• oncoming
• succumbing
• upcoming
• coming
• cumming
• drumming
• gumming
• humming

Kids Definition

shortcoming

noun

short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkəm-iŋ 

(ˈ)shȯrt-ˈkəm-

: fault entry 1 sense 1b