Showing results for "failing"

• present participle of fail.

failing

American  

[fey-ling] / ˈfeɪ lɪŋ /

noun

failings plural

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.

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preposition

1. in the absence or default of.

   Failing payment, we shall sue.

failing British  

/ ˈfeɪlɪŋ /

noun

1. a weak point; flaw

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preposition

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

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

Synonym Usage

See fault.

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• failingness
  noun
• failingly
  adverb

Inflected Forms

Nouns

• failings
  plural

Etymology

Origin of failing

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

Example Sentences

Failing to accurately size up the candidate’s skills or fit with the company’s culture were the biggest reasons.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 16, 2026

Failing to address any known risk on your property may constitute negligence.

From MarketWatch • May 28, 2026

Failing to earn the degree bothered her, and King would correct anyone who said she had graduated.

From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026

Failing that, we need to ensure Americans who are investigated have ample opportunity to challenge subpoenas.

From Slate • May 1, 2026

Failing that, they would be adjudged traitors, their lands and titles forfeit to the throne.

From "A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin

Related Words

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