shortcoming

noun

short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkə-miŋ How to pronounce shortcoming (audio)
ˌshȯrt-ˈkə-
Synonyms of shortcomingnext
: 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
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.
Despite his shortcomings in the latter half of the season, Gore recorded a career-high 185 strikeouts and made 25 or more starts for the third season running. Aaron Coloma, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2025 Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Saturday acknowledged the government’s shortcomings in flood management and announced compensation for those affected. Mithil Aggarwal, NBC news, 3 Dec. 2025 Despite its shortcomings, Goliath’s Curse is best read as a call to channel apocalyptic angst into a productive political project, an appeal to combat oppression and inequality. Linda Kinstler, The Atlantic, 1 Dec. 2025 The shortcomings of this approach were illustrated by the blowback to globalization and the global financial crisis. John Cassidy, New Yorker, 1 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shortcoming

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shortcoming was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shortcoming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shortcoming. Accessed 13 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

shortcoming

noun
short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkəm-iŋ How to pronounce shortcoming (audio)
(ˈ)shȯrt-ˈkəm-

More from Merriam-Webster on shortcoming

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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