Failing

/ˈfeɪ.lɪŋ/

verb

  1. To be unsuccessful.

    Throughout my life, I have always failed.

  2. Not to achieve a particular stated goal. (Usage note: The direct object of this word is usually an infinitive.)

    The truck failed to start.

  3. To neglect.

    The report fails to take into account all the mitigating factors.

Synonyms: fall on one's face, flunk

noun

  1. Weakness; defect

    His worst failing is his temper.

preposition

  1. 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.

failing

Loading dictionaries...

Initializing dictionary manager

+