ENGLISH
REFERENCE

failings

n. plural-only
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈfeɪɫɪŋz// UK //fˈeɪlɪŋz// fail·ings

n. the weaknesses or mistakes in someone's character or in a system. You use this to talk about things that are not as good as they should be.

n. weaknesses, flaws, or shortcomings in a person's character, an organization, or a plan. Often used when evaluating performance or moral conduct.


SIMPLE

We must recognize our own failings before we can improve.

CONTEXTUAL

The report highlighted several systemic failings in the hospital's emergency response procedures.

COMPLEX

While the leader was admired for his vision, his personal failings eventually undermined the public's trust in the entire institution.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

Typically used in the plural form to refer to a collection of faults; takes a plural verb.

© 2026 English Reference