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Shortcoming: meaning, definitions and examples

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shortcoming

 

[ˈʃɔːtˌkʌmɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

inadequacy

A shortcoming is a fault or a failure to reach a certain standard. It is a deficiency or a weakness in someone or something.

Synonyms

deficiency, fault, flaw, weakness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shortcoming

Used to describe an area where someone or something falls short of a desired standard or expectation but isn't inherently negative.

  • One of his shortcomings is his inability to delegate tasks effectively
  • The project has several shortcomings that need to be addressed
fault

Often used to describe a mistake or a negative characteristic, particularly in someone's behavior or character. It has a more personal and possibly accusatory tone.

  • It was her fault that the meeting was canceled
  • He has a fault for being overly critical
deficiency

Generally used in a more serious context, often related to health, performance, or required standards, highlighting a lack of something essential.

  • The doctor diagnosed him with a vitamin D deficiency
  • The report pointed out several deficiencies in the current system
weakness

Used to describe a lack of strength, skill, or ability, often in a more general or personal context. It's softer than 'fault' and 'deficiency'.

  • Her main weakness is her inability to say no
  • Recognizing your own weaknesses is the first step to self-improvement
flaw

Typically used to describe an imperfection or weakness in something, often used in the context of design, logic, or physical objects. It can be less personal than 'fault'.

  • There is a flaw in the design of this software
  • Every diamond has some flaws, but they do not affect its value

Examples of usage

  • One of his major shortcomings is his lack of attention to detail.
  • The company's biggest shortcoming is their poor communication skills.
Context #2 | Noun

disadvantage

A shortcoming can also refer to a disadvantage or a limitation that hinders someone or something from achieving their full potential.

Synonyms

disadvantage, drawback, limitation, obstacle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shortcoming

Used when referring to a fault or failure to meet a certain standard, often in a personal context.

  • One of his main shortcomings is his lack of punctuality.
  • Her shortcoming in communication made the job difficult.
disadvantage

This word is used when referring to a condition or situation that makes success more difficult, often in competitive contexts.

  • Growing up in a small town was a disadvantage for him.
  • The company faced a disadvantage due to their outdated technology.
limitation

Used when referring to a restriction or boundary that prevents full effectiveness or capability.

  • The limitations of the new software make it less useful than expected.
  • His physical limitations prevent him from playing sports.
obstacle

This word is used when referring to something that blocks one's way or hinders progress, often in physical or metaphorical journeys.

  • The biggest obstacle to their plan was the lack of funding.
  • Communication barriers were an obstacle to the project’s success.
drawback

Used when referring to a feature that renders something less acceptable or useful, often for products or plans.

  • One major drawback of this car is its high fuel consumption.
  • The primary drawback of this plan is the high cost.

Examples of usage

  • The team's lack of experience proved to be a significant shortcoming in the competition.
  • One major shortcoming of the software is its inability to handle large amounts of data.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word combines 'short', meaning less or not enough, with 'coming', which suggests arrival or occurrence.
  • It first appeared in the English language during the 15th century, indicating an issue or failing.
  • Originally used in various forms of literature, it has evolved to carry a more critical connotation over time.

Psychology

  • Understanding one’s shortcomings is an essential part of personal growth and self-awareness.
  • People often view their own shortcomings more harshly than those of others, which can affect self-esteem.
  • Acknowledging shortcomings can lead to better coping mechanisms and improved relationships with others.

Business

  • In the workplace, recognizing a team’s shortcomings can lead to strategic improvements and better performance.
  • Feedback about shortcomings is essential for employee development and can foster a growth-oriented culture.
  • Leaders often turn challenges related to shortcomings into opportunities for team building and innovation.

Education

  • Educators encourage students to identify their shortcomings to tailor learning strategies that enhance skills.
  • Addressing shortcomings in educational curricula can create more inclusive learning environments.
  • Self-assessment in education helps students understand their shortcomings and develop plans to address them.

Literature

  • Many classic novels explore characters’ shortcomings, which often drive the plot and reveal deeper themes.
  • Shortcomings are a common theme in poetry, emphasizing the human experience and struggle.
  • Authors frequently use characters' shortcomings to create relatable narratives that resonate with readers.

Translations

Translations of the word "shortcoming" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deficiência

🇮🇳 कमज़ोरी

🇩🇪 Mangel

🇮🇩 kekurangan

🇺🇦 недолік

🇵🇱 niedociągnięcie

🇯🇵 欠点 (けってん)

🇫🇷 défaut

🇪🇸 deficiencia

🇹🇷 kusur

🇰🇷 결점 (gyeoljeom)

🇸🇦 نقص

🇨🇿 nedostatek

🇸🇰 nedostatok

🇨🇳 缺点 (quēdiǎn)

🇸🇮 pomanjkljivost

🇮🇸 galli

🇰🇿 кемшілік

🇬🇪 ნაკლი

🇦🇿 çatışmazlıq

🇲🇽 deficiencia

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,600, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.