shortcomings

noun

plural of shortcoming
as in weaknesses
a defect in character a wife who never tires of listing her husband's perceived shortcomings

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of shortcomings Allar has first-round physical traits, but his two biggest shortcomings are decision making and accuracy. — Ted Nguyen, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026 In the old days, there would be a congressional investigation into such shortcomings. — Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 18 Aug. 2026 This level is often what challenges character development, revealing shortcomings that were not present in less challenging contexts. — Mary Crossan, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026 Clinicians and patients who struggle through this interim process may become less inclined to advocate for its expansion, while policymakers may see lower uptake as a sign of limited demand rather than evidence of operational shortcomings. — Jeffrey Millstein, STAT, 11 Aug. 2026 While the Endangered Species Act has shortcomings, once these changes go into effect next month, even fewer protections will exist, Boyles said. — Finnegan Belleau, Chicago Tribune, 9 Aug. 2026 Many of the shortcomings identified by the review revolve around the Bonita shelter, whose closure has been delayed. — Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Aug. 2026 Some of the issues, including the shortcomings in the apps, make the PixCut S1 a bit of a rough cut. — M. David Stone, PC Magazine, 2 Aug. 2026 Great battery life that finally addresses one of the Framework Laptop 13’s biggest shortcomings. — ArsTechnica, 27 July 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for shortcomings
  1. weaknesses
  2. faults
  3. sins
Noun
  • This early success, however, exposed weaknesses within the Maratha army rather than resolving them.
    — Tamanna Nangia, Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Aug. 2026
  • While the licensing laws are strict, critics say there are weaknesses in enforcement.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of weaknesses
Noun
  • The model also accounts for major geologic faults because the bedrock layer in those areas is more likely to have cracks and fissures, according to Campbell.
    — Idaho Statesman, Idaho Statesman, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Malfunctions can stem from a variety of underlying faults, including software issues and manufacturing missteps.
    — Bloomberg, Mercury News, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of faults
Noun
  • Fans of improv, musicals and audience participation will thoroughly enjoy this performance and should be prepared to repent for sins like eating a hamburger, owning too many snakes or yearning for a younger man.
    — Talia McWright, Twin Cities, 9 Aug. 2026
  • Seven of our contributors gamely shared (some of) their secret sins.
    — Sabrina Jaszi, The Dial, 4 Aug. 2026
Definition of sins

Browse Nearby Words

shortcoming
shortcomings
shortcut
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Cite this Entry

“Shortcomings.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shortcomings. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on shortcomings

Nglish: Translation of shortcomings for Spanish Speakers

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