failing

[fey-ling]

noun

1. an act or instance of failing; failure.

   His failing is due to general incompetence.

2. a defect or fault; shortcoming; weakness.

   His lack of knowledge is a grave failing.

preposition

1. in the absence or default of.

   Failing payment, we shall sue.

failing

/ ˈfeɪlɪŋ /

noun

1. a weak point; flaw

preposition

1. (used to express a condition) in default of

   failing a solution this afternoon, the problem will have to wait until Monday

Other Word Forms

• failingly adverb
• failingness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of failing¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English; fail, -ing ¹

Synonym Study

See fault.

Example Sentences

But she has been criticised for failing to halt the violence gripping the country and is facing increased hostility from nearby countries.

Read more on BBC

Three years later of course, that 2012 team flamed out of their home Rugby World Cup, failing to get out of the pool stage.

Read more on BBC

It warned that failing to comply with Somali and international aviation rules could pose safety risks and lead to "serious legal consequences".

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In recent months, authorities have closed several cafes and restaurants for failing to enforce hijab rules or for serving alcohol, which is prohibited in Iran.

Read more on Barron's

But that’s no excuse for failing to have ideas to promote and debate and take to the voters even if they can’t pass them.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• defect 
• deficiency 
• drawback 
• error 
• failure 
• fault 
• flaw 
• foible 
• frailty 
• imperfection 
• weakness