What does imperfection mean?
Imperfection names both the condition of being incomplete or less than perfect and the particular flaws that can occur in a person, object, process, or system. It is common in discussions of art, design, morality, philosophy, and technology, where perfect quality may be an unrealistic standard. The term can imply criticism when it identifies a fault, as in a discussion of imperfections in a product, but it can also be used more neutrally to describe an unavoidable human condition. In the plural, “imperfections” usually refers to multiple specific defects or shortcomings, such as minor mistakes in a manuscript or technical limitations in a machine. Overall, imperfection is useful for describing both the general state of falling short of perfection and the concrete features that reveal that shortfall.
The state or quality of being imperfect, incomplete, or not absolutely excellent.
"The design is attractive, but its imperfection is difficult to ignore."
This sense is often abstract and may refer to a general condition rather than one specific fault.
A flaw, defect, or shortcoming in a person, thing, process, or system.
"The report identified an imperfection in the manufacturing process."
In this countable sense, the word often means a relatively minor or specific fault.
Used when referring to several distinct flaws, defects, or shortcomings.
"The restorer corrected the painting's numerous imperfections without obscuring its original character."
Perfection can make a finished object; imperfection can tell you what still needs work.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does imperfection come from?
“Imperfection” comes from Latin “imperfectio,” a noun formed from “imperfectus,” meaning “not perfect” or “incomplete.” The word entered English through Latin and French usage in the late medieval period. It belongs to the same Latin root as “perfect,” “perfection,” “defect,” and “defective,” all of which express related ideas of completion, faultlessness, or shortcoming.
Related word forms
How imperfection is actually used
The word is generally neutral in register. In its abstract sense, it often describes a condition or principle; in its concrete sense, it is countable and refers to an individual flaw or defect.
Easily confused with imperfection
An imperfection is a flaw or the condition of falling short, whereas imperfect is an adjective describing something that is not complete or flawless.