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Definitions

failing

[fey-ling] / ˈfeɪ lɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
not well, weak
Synonyms
STRONG
declining defeated faint scant scanty short shy wanting
WEAK
deficient feeble inadequate insufficient scarce unavailing unprosperous unsuccessful unsufficient unthriving vain
Antonyms
STRONG
adequate enough sufficient
WEAK
OK healthy rebounding strong thriving well
NOUN
lapse, shortcoming
Synonyms
STRONGEST
defect deficiency drawback error failure fault flaw foible frailty imperfection weakness
STRONG
infirmity miscarriage misfortune vice
WEAK
blind spot weak point
Antonyms
STRONGEST
advantage benefit perfection strength
WEAK
strong point

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

On Monday, the public inquiry identified "catastrophic" parental and local authority failings, with a "merry-go-round" of referrals, assessments and "hand-offs" between agencies failing to stop the "predictable and preventable" attack.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

It is to face the fact that the current approach is failing by every measurable standard and to build something more honest in its place.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

They are failing to expand their ranges because of a lack of suitable new habitats to colonise.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

Several high-value productions in the team shooter genre have fallen flat in recent years, with titles such as "Concord" or "Highguard" quickly taken offline after failing to win a loyal player base.

From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026

I asked, trying and failing to keep the slight pleading tone from my voice.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin