falls short
/fɔlz ʃɔrt/
VERB
1. To fail to reach a required standard, goal, or expectation
To be insufficient or inadequate in meeting a particular requirement, expectation, target, or desired result.
1.1. Failing to meet requirements or expectations
Describes something that does not satisfy a required standard, fulfill expectations, or provide what is needed.
Synonyms
- fails
- misses
- comes up short
- is inadequate
- is insufficient
- falls below
Antonyms
- delivers
- succeeds
- prevails
- triumphs
- works out
Examples
- Despite his efforts, the project falls short of meeting the deadline.
- The candidate's qualifications falls short of the requirements for the job.
- Although well-intentioned, the apology falls short of addressing the harm caused.
- Her explanation falls short of providing a satisfactory answer to the complex question.
Related Words
- deficiency
- inadequacy
- insufficiency
- shortcoming
- limitation
- failure
VERB
2. To fail or perform unsuccessfully
To fail in an attempt, undertaking, or performance, or to produce an unsuccessful result.
2.1. Failing or being unsuccessful
Describes an attempt, plan, performance, or undertaking that does not succeed or achieve its intended result.
Synonyms
- bombs
- breaks down
- collapses
- comes to grief
- fails
- falls flat
- fizzles
- flops
- flounders
- flunks
- founders
- misfires
- strikes out
- washes out
Antonyms
- comes off
- flourishes
- pans out
- prospers
- succeeds
- thrives
- wins
Examples
- The company's revenue falls short of projections for the quarter, prompting a review of its strategy.
Related Words
- blunders
- botches
- bungles
- fails
- fumbles
- miscalculates
- misses
- stumbles