a big failing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big failing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant mistake or shortcoming in a particular context, such as a project, decision, or personal behavior. Example: "The team's inability to meet the deadline was a big failing that affected the overall success of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

This is a big failing, because clearing and settlement account for 80% of the cost of European cross-border share trading.

The Economist

"His report card right now has a big failing grade," Ms Bachmann said.

BBC

"It shows in Mid-Staffordshire, that that was a big failing in the whole system and I was in that system and I was part of it, absolutely".

BBC

So I think a big failing of open source technology nowadays is that you basically have corporates sponsoring it because they use it in some capacity and that's kind of how these things are governed.

TechCrunch

Hamamoto also contends that another reason why SmartNews is doing so well is that it tries to position itself as an app for the general public, not journalists, or tech buffs or news junkies — a target customer triumvirate that, some believe, has been a big failing of many of other news aggregation apps.

TechCrunch

2) create your own personal health profile and history.It will help you and create a base of knowledge for your children,their children, etc. 3) a big failing of medicine = we wait till we are sick to have our blood tested and compare the results to "comparable demographics".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

But Mr. Yang's doctors see a bigger failing.

The New York Times

Those who have seen the film will know that I have omitted the man's one big failing: he has a drink problem.

The Guardian - Film

It creates a mechanism for seizing and winding down big failing firms while limiting the government's discretion to keep them as going concerns.

The Economist

Its big failing is Mr. Eckart's reconceived character, an American scholar who has the loutish air and vocabulary of an arrogant frat boy.

The New York Times

That's the big failing of psychotherapy.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a big failing", be specific about what constitutes the failure. Providing context helps the audience understand the severity and impact of the issue.

Common error

Avoid using "a big failing" for minor issues. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and credibility. Reserve it for situations where the failure truly has significant consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big failing" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies and characterizes a significant shortcoming or defect, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big failing" is an effective phrase for highlighting significant shortcomings or deficiencies. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and typically used in neutral contexts, particularly within news and media. While alternatives like "major flaw" or "significant deficiency" exist, "a big failing" carries a specific connotation of notable impact. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the severity of the issue and provide sufficient context for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major flaw

Emphasizes a significant defect or imperfection.

a significant deficiency

Highlights a notable lack or inadequacy.

a critical weakness

Focuses on a vulnerability that has serious consequences.

a serious shortcoming

Indicates a significant defect or limitation.

a grave mistake

Stresses the severity of an error.

a colossal blunder

Highlights a huge or egregious error.

a fundamental defect

Points to a basic or essential flaw.

a substantial imperfection

Indicates a considerable lack of perfection.

a notable inadequacy

Emphasizes a clear lack of what is needed.

a considerable fault

Highlights a significant flaw or defect.

FAQs

How can I use "a big failing" in a sentence?

You can use "a big failing" to describe a significant flaw or error in a system, project, or person's actions. For example, "The project's inability to meet deadlines was "a big failing" that impacted the entire company."

What are some alternatives to "a big failing"?

Alternatives include "major flaw", "significant deficiency", or "critical weakness". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a big failure" or "a big failing"?

While "a big failure" is also correct, "a big failing" often implies an ongoing or inherent flaw, whereas "a big failure" suggests a single, completed event. Consider the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a minor failing" and "a big failing"?

"A minor failing" refers to a small, insignificant error or flaw. In contrast, ""a big failing"" denotes a significant and impactful flaw or error that has substantial consequences.