the only shortcoming

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the only shortcoming" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to highlight a singular disadvantage or flaw in a situation, product, or argument. Example: "The only shortcoming of this software is its limited compatibility with older operating systems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

This was a rather disappointing feature that I was looking forward to trying, but sadly it's not the only shortcoming.

TechCrunch

The only shortcoming is how quickly it's all over.

The Guardian - Music

And perhaps here lies the only shortcoming of "The Wagner Clan".

The New York Times - Books

"The only shortcoming is that the word 'fund' doesn't carry as much weight as 'foundation'".

The Guardian - Business

The only shortcoming of this bold production is the bleak lighting.

The New York Times - Arts

In recent years the only shortcoming of Ms. Frittoli's singing has been a tendency for her sustained tones to wobble.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

The only shortcomings detected were significant reductions in diameter and height complexity as assessed by the Gini coefficient, Shannon H′ and standard deviation, with a significantly lower number of large-sized trees (dbh 50 cm+, height 23 m+), especially in the low residual basal area regime.

New Zealand Journal of Forestry Science

According to Ben Needell, chairman of the Restoration Project board, the rowing association's fiscal delinquency was not its only shortcoming.

The New York Times

Obviously, she needs allies, but a disdain for deal-making that borders on arrogance has so far prevented her from getting them.That is not her only shortcoming.

The Economist

The book's only shortcoming is that at times the action can feel a little too fast paced!

The Guardian

GamePro also considered the Japanese-to-English Japanese-to-English Japanese-to-Englishhe game, and IGN regarded translation to use only three charactersignificant as "the game's only shortcoming".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the only shortcoming" to pinpoint a specific area needing improvement or consideration when assessing something generally positive.

Common error

Avoid using "the only shortcoming" if there are multiple significant issues. A more general term might be more appropriate if several smaller issues combine to become a substantial problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the only shortcoming" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a single defect or limitation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is commonly used to pinpoint a specific area needing improvement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the only shortcoming" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to highlight a single flaw or limitation. Ludwig AI confirms this, and the examples provided demonstrate its frequent use in balanced assessments, particularly in news, science, and business contexts. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the situation and that there aren't other significant issues. Consider alternatives like "the sole drawback" or "the single limitation" to achieve subtle differences in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the sole disadvantage

Emphasizes singularity and negativity.

the single limitation

Highlights that there's only one limiting factor.

the one drawback

Focuses on a negative aspect that detracts from the overall value.

the solitary flaw

Underscores the isolated nature of the defect.

the main weakness

Points to the primary area of vulnerability.

the chief defect

Highlights the most important imperfection.

the principal fault

Identifies the main error or failing.

the single imperfection

Focuses on the one aspect that isn't perfect.

the isolated problem

Highlights the unique problematic element.

the unique failing

Emphasizes that there's just one aspect where it fails.

FAQs

How can I use "the only shortcoming" in a sentence?

You can use "the only shortcoming" to highlight a single flaw or limitation in an otherwise positive evaluation. For example, "The only shortcoming of the new phone is its battery life."

What are some alternatives to "the only shortcoming"?

Some alternatives include "the sole drawback", "the single limitation", or "the one disadvantage", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "the only shortcoming"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that there is only one notable negative aspect, especially when the subject is otherwise satisfactory. Be sure that this perceived "only shortcoming" is accurately and comprehensively identified.

Is it acceptable to use "shortcoming" in formal writing?

Yes, "shortcoming" is generally acceptable in formal writing, although in some business or academic contexts, terms like "limitation" or "disadvantage" might sound more professional.