failing

1 of 2

noun

fail·​ing ˈfā-liŋ 

: a usually slight or insignificant defect in character, conduct, or ability

failing

2 of 2

preposition

: in absence or default of

failing specific instructions, use your own judgment

Synonyms

Noun

• demerit
• dereliction
• fault
• foible
• frailty
• shortcoming
• sin
• vice
• want
• weakness

Choose the Right Synonym for failing

fault, failing, frailty, foible, vice mean an imperfection or weakness of character.

fault implies a failure, not necessarily culpable, to reach some standard of perfection in disposition, action, or habit.

a writer of many virtues and few faults

failing suggests a minor shortcoming in character.

being late is a failing of mine

frailty implies a general or chronic proneness to yield to temptation.

human frailties

foible applies to a harmless or endearing weakness or idiosyncrasy.

an eccentric's charming foibles

vice can be a general term for any imperfection or weakness, but it often suggests violation of a moral code or the giving of offense to the moral sensibilities of others.

compulsive gambling was his vice

Examples of failing in a Sentence

Noun

He has some minor failings.

we could talk about your failings, but it would take all night

Preposition

Failing progress in the peace process, war seems likely.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Simply put, these failings of the Giants offense do not fall squarely on the shoulders of the former quarterback. —Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 28 Nov. 2024

So to show up to one of the biggest races in the world, with one of the biggest brands in the world, with one of the most famous, successful racing drivers in the world, and not qualify, well, that's a failing. —Sean Gregory, TIME, 24 Nov. 2024

Washington nails Malcolm’s steely militancy and gift of gab, but the performance goes far deeper, examining the early failings and eventual righteous fury that transformed him into a once-in-a-lifetime political figure. —Tim Grierson, Vulture, 24 Nov. 2024

DeRosa sounded off on the failures of the Harris campaign and broader mistakes and failings of the Democratic Party. —Forbestv, Forbes, 6 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1590, in the meaning defined above

Preposition

1810, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing failing

• failing grade/mark
• failing that

Kids Definition

failing

1 of 2 noun

fail·​ing ˈfā-liŋ 

: weakness sense 2, shortcoming

failing

2 of 2 preposition

: in the absence or lack of

failing specific instructions, use your own judgment