noun
shortcoming
SHAWT-kum-ing
Shortcoming (noun) means a fault or weakness in someone or something that stops them being as good as they should be. Example: “The report lists the shortcomings of the current booking system.”
noun
1
A fault or weakness in someone or something that stops them being as good as they should be.
"The report lists the shortcomings of the current booking system."
"He is honest about his own shortcomings as a manager."
How to use shortcoming
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething a person or thing is not good enough at.
When to use it
Neutral and slightly formal. Common in reviews, appraisals and reports. Usually plural.
Memory tip
A shortcoming is a quality; a shortfall is a quantity. Use shortcoming for a weakness, shortfall for a missing amount.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
serious shortcoming
despite its shortcomings
address the shortcomings
own shortcomings
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The report lists the _____ of the current booking system.
Etymology
From the phrase to come short, meaning to fall short of a standard.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for shortcoming
coming
homing
Wyoming
zooming
booming
blooming
grooming
upcoming
oncoming
becoming
incoming
welcoming
See all rhymes for shortcoming →
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a shortcoming and a shortfall?
A shortcoming is a defect in ability or quality, such as poor communication. A shortfall is a numerical gap, such as being £4,000 short of a target. They are not interchangeable.
Is shortcoming a polite word?
Fairly. It is softer and more formal than fault or failure, which is why it is standard in appraisals and official reports where you want to criticise without sounding harsh.
What is the meaning of shortcoming?
"shortcoming" (noun) means a fault or weakness in someone or something that stops them being as good as they should be.
What is another word for shortcoming?
Other words for "shortcoming" include failing, weakness, flaw, defect, limitation, drawback.
