ENGLISH
REFERENCE

failing

n. countable
C1 Advanced US //ˈfeɪɫɪŋ// UK //fˈeɪlɪŋ// fail·ing

n. a weakness or a mistake in someone's character or in a system. It is a way to describe a fault that prevents someone or something from being perfect.

n. a weakness or shortcoming in a person's character, or a deficiency in a system or process. Often used to describe a specific flaw rather than a general state of failure.


SIMPLE

His biggest failing is that he never listens to advice.

CONTEXTUAL

The report highlighted a serious failing in the hospital's safety procedures that led to the accident.

COMPLEX

While the candidate possessed immense charisma, his inability to delegate tasks was seen as a significant failing that might hinder his effectiveness in a high-pressure executive role.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

Commonly used in the plural form ('failings') when discussing a person's character or a list of systemic errors.

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