shortfall

noun

short·​fall ˈshȯrt-ˌfȯl How to pronounce shortfall (audio)
Synonyms of shortfallnext
: a failure to come up to expectation or need
a budget shortfall
also : the amount of such failure
a $2 million shortfall

Examples of shortfall in a Sentence

a shortfall in milk production
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.
An analysis of Israeli figures by The Associated Press last week showed there has been a shortfall in aid deliveries, with Israel agreeing to let in 600 trucks per day but the true daily average totaling 459. Alexander Smith, NBC news, 26 Dec. 2025 The agency projects an average annual funding shortfall of $75 million from 2027 through 2035, even as officials believe ridership will continue to grow with more Silicon Valley workers expected to return to offices next year. Ryan MacAsero, Mercury News, 24 Dec. 2025 The mayor's budget team has argued the alternative budget plan will leave a $163 million shortfall that would have to be filled midyear with spending cuts, layoffs, or new taxes. Todd Feurer, CBS News, 23 Dec. 2025 That reflects an ongoing sentiment among council members throughout the year as the city has struggled with a budget shortfall, layoffs, and growing tension between the mayor and the council. Elliott Wenzler, Denver Post, 23 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shortfall

Word History

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shortfall was in 1895

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Cite this Entry

“Shortfall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shortfall. Accessed 28 Dec. 2025.

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