major shortcomings

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "major shortcomings" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe significant flaws or deficiencies in something, such as a plan, product, or argument. Example: "The report highlighted several major shortcomings in the proposed strategy that need to be addressed before implementation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But in the kitchen, it has two major shortcomings.

The New York Times - Magazine

It found major shortcomings that helped lead to changes in safety procedures in nuclear reactors.

The New York Times

It found inadequate planning, poor training and unclear policies among a long list of "major shortcomings" in the department's response.

The Guardian

On stage Tuesday evening, neither Mr. Gates nor Mr. Ballmer was willing to concede any major shortcomings in Vista.

The New York Times

Nicholas D. Kristof's column about phthalates ("Chemicals and Our Health, July 16) highlights major shortcomings in our chemical regulation system.

The New York Times

The rate theory has two major shortcomings.

Materials Theory

However, this conventional approach has two major shortcomings.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

This substantial improvement is achieved by selectively overcoming the major shortcomings of the individual silanes.

Electrochimica Acta

Most of these techniques are fast and simple but have major shortcomings.

Advanced Structural and Chemical Imaging

However this technique has several major shortcomings (Cha et al. 2014).

International Journal of Coal Science & Technology

Major shortcomings causing considerable uncertainties related to the risk assessment were identified in all three categories.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "major shortcomings", be specific about what those shortcomings are. Provide concrete examples or details to support your assessment.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of the "major shortcomings". Ensure your assessment is balanced and considers potential strengths or mitigating factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "major shortcomings" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies significant deficiencies or flaws in a particular entity or concept. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "major shortcomings" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase for pointing out significant deficiencies. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for formal analysis and critical evaluations across diverse fields like science, news, and formal business settings. When employing this phrase, provide specific examples to add weight to your assessment, and remember to maintain a balanced perspective by acknowledging strengths as well. Alternatives such as "significant flaws", "serious deficiencies", and "key weaknesses" can add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant flaws

Emphasizes the presence of noteworthy defects or imperfections.

serious deficiencies

Highlights a lack or inadequacy in essential qualities or elements.

key weaknesses

Focuses on the critical areas where something is vulnerable or lacking strength.

principal defects

Indicates the main or most important faults in something.

substantial limitations

Stresses the considerable restrictions or constraints present.

critical vulnerabilities

Highlights weaknesses that are likely to be exploited or cause harm.

primary failings

Draws attention to the main instances of failure or inadequacy.

notable inadequacies

Emphasizes that the deficiencies are significant and worth noting.

chief drawbacks

Points out the main disadvantages or negative aspects.

major gaps

Focuses on missing elements or areas where information or resources are lacking.

FAQs

How can I use "major shortcomings" in a sentence?

You can use "major shortcomings" to point out significant flaws or deficiencies in a plan, system, or analysis. For example: "The report revealed several major shortcomings in the company's cybersecurity protocols."

What are some alternatives to saying "major shortcomings"?

You can use alternatives such as "significant flaws", "serious deficiencies", or "key weaknesses" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "major shortcomings" in formal writing?

Yes, "major shortcomings" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when providing critical analysis or evaluations. Ensure your assessment is well-supported with evidence.

What is the difference between "major shortcomings" and "minor shortcomings"?

"Major shortcomings" refer to significant flaws that can seriously impact the success or effectiveness of something, while "minor shortcomings" are less critical and may not have a substantial impact.