failing
From WikiWord, the free dictionary
/ˈfeɪ.lɪŋ/
English
Definitions
verb
- To be unsuccessful.“Throughout my life, I have always failed.”
- Not to achieve a particular stated goal. (Usage note: The direct object of this word is usually an infinitive.)“The truck failed to start.”
- To neglect.“The report fails to take into account all the mitigating factors.”
- Of a machine, etc.: to cease to operate correctly.“After running five minutes, the engine failed.”
noun
- Weakness; defect“His worst failing is his temper.”
preposition
- If the preferred or prior option is not possible“A large proportion of the females employed in other firms are said to have signified their intention of going on strike, failing a settlement.”
Related words
Synonyms
fall on one's faceflunkweaknessunsatisfactoryunsuccessfuldeterioratingdecliningretrograderegressingretrogressiveregressivefaultshortageshortcomingdeficiencydefectivedefectfaulty