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

Manually selecting photos with the plus button in Gemini can help address these shortcomings. —Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 16 Apr. 2026

At the time of the inspection in March 2024 the financial regulator found weaknesses in risk assessments, routines and customer due diligence, as well as shortcomings in ongoing follow-up of customer relationships and outsourcing, according to a statement on Thursday. —Evelina Youcefi, Bloomberg, 16 Apr. 2026

Curry might not be thrilled with so frequently making the play-in tournament, where the Warriors are 1-3, but no one can blame him for their shortcomings. —Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 14 Apr. 2026

Colorism remains a significant shortcoming, with talent with deep skin tones receiving less than 25 percent of screen time. —Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 13 Apr. 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