flaw
flaw
Flaw (noun) means a defect or imperfection, often one that is hidden or not obvious at first. Example: “The diamond had a small flaw visible only under magnification.”
noun
1
A defect or imperfection, often one that is hidden or not obvious at first.
"The diamond had a small flaw visible only under magnification."
"His plan had one fatal flaw: it needed everyone to agree."
"The engineer found a flaw in the bridge design before building began."
How to use flaw
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA weakness or defect in something, whether physical, like a crack, or abstract, like a plan or argument.
Common pairings
fatal flaw
design flaw
character flaw
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Word forms
- Plural
- flaws
- Third person singular
- flaws
- Past tense
- flawed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The diamond had a small _____ visible only under magnification.
Etymology
From Middle English flawe, probably from Old Norse flaga ("a flake" or "slab of stone").
Related words
Rhymes for flaw
See all rhymes for flaw →Frequently asked questions
What does “flaw” mean?
The word “flaw” means a defect or imperfection, often one that is hidden or not obvious at first. In plain terms, a weakness or defect in something, whether physical, like a crack, or abstract, like a plan or argument.
How do you pronounce “flaw”?
“Flaw” is pronounced flaw (/flɔ/ in IPA).
How do you use “flaw” in a sentence?
Here is “flaw” used in a sentence: “The diamond had a small flaw visible only under magnification.”
What part of speech is “flaw”?
“Flaw” is a noun.
Where does the word “flaw” come from?
The word “flaw” comes from Middle English. From Middle English flawe, probably from Old Norse flaga ("a flake" or "slab of stone").
Is “flaw” a common word?
“Flaw” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between a flaw and a mistake?
A flaw is usually an inherent imperfection or weakness in something's design, character, or material, while a mistake is a specific error made in an action or decision. A flaw can exist without anyone doing anything wrong, whereas a mistake implies an action that went wrong.
What is the difference between a flaw and a fault?
The two words overlap closely, but "flaw" often suggests a hidden or subtle defect that isn't obvious at first glance, while "fault" can be more visible and also carries a sense of blame, as in "it's not my fault." Both describe imperfections, but "fault" more commonly implies responsibility.
Can "flaw" describe a weakness in an argument or plan, not just a physical object?
Yes, "flaw" is commonly used for abstract things like arguments, plans, and personalities, such as "a flaw in the logic" or "a character flaw." It applies just as naturally to conceptual weaknesses as to physical defects.
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