What does shortcoming mean?
A shortcoming is a weakness, defect, or limitation that prevents a person or thing from achieving its full potential. The word is especially common in formal discussion of characters, conduct, organisations, policies, arguments, and designed objects. Unlike a general mistake, a shortcoming often suggests a persistent feature or deficiency rather than a single accidental error. It can be serious or relatively minor, and the expression is frequently paired with qualifiers such as “major,” “serious,” or “notable.” In professional and analytical contexts, identifying a shortcoming means acknowledging what is deficient while still recognising the value of the person, plan, or system involved. The word is also useful for discussing limitations in arguments and methods, where it indicates a point that is vulnerable or incomplete rather than entirely worthless.
nounA deficiency or failing in someone's character, behaviour, or performance. A shortcoming is a weakness or shortcoming that prevents someone or something from achieving a desired result.
- A weakness, defect, or failing in a person, organisation, plan, or performance.
"The committee acknowledged that the proposal had several serious shortcomings."
"The main shortcoming of the design was its excessive weight."
"Her honesty is one of her greatest strengths, although her impatience can be a shortcoming."
Used when referring to multiple weaknesses, defects, or failures in a person, organisation, plan, or system.
"The project has several practical shortcomings that need to be addressed before launch."
A shortcoming is a flaw that keeps something from being as good as it could be.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shortcoming come from?
The word combines the older elements “short” and “coming,” expressing the idea of something falling short or failing to come up to a standard. It has been used in English since the early modern period in senses connected with deficiency and failure. The expression reflects a broader Germanic pattern of forming compounds from short words, and related words such as “short,” “come,” and “overcome” share the same basic vocabulary roots.
How shortcoming is actually used
Generally formal and neutral in tone. It is used for a clearly identified weakness or limitation and often appears in discussion of people, organisations, plans, systems, and works.
Easily confused with shortcoming
A shortcoming is a deficiency or weakness, while a setback is an event that delays or obstructs progress.