SHORTFALL Synonyms: 27 Similar and Opposite Words

shortfall

noun

Definition of shortfall

as in deficiency

formal a failure to get what is expected or needed a shortfall in milk production profit shortfalls

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of shortfall Social Security faces a looming funding shortfall The Social Security Administration faces a looming bankruptcy date if a funding shortfall is not addressed by Congress. — Fatima Hussein, Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026 But despite production rising to record levels in 2025, UBS nonetheless expects shortfalls to reach an all-time high next year. — semafor.com, 14 Oct. 2026 Many Minnesota school districts are facing funding shortfalls, staffing shortages, or declining enrollment. — Wcco Staff, CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026 The nation’s energy regulators have shot down a bid from a regional grid operator to cut power to some large data centers during a supply shortfall — leaving the issue largely in the hands of states. — Rachel Frazin, The Hill, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shortfall

Recent Examples of Synonyms for shortfall

Noun

While it was designed to bring nationwide uniformity and stability to college athletics, its deficiencies are manifold.

— Bruce Svare, Sportico.com, 17 Oct. 2026
Commissioner John King's office previously said the March inspection found no violations, deficiencies or red tags.

— Christopher Harris, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of deficiency

Noun

Weiss enlisted the staff as partners in helping to fix the deficit, creating a task force of some 15 representatives to advise on budgetary decisions.

— Hilarie M. Sheets, ARTnews.com, 13 Oct. 2026
After a home run by Cedric Mullins trimmed the deficit to 4-3 in the bottom of the eighth, Cole Sulser yielded a leadoff single to slumping Angel Martínez in the ninth and balked him to second base.

— ABC News, ABC News, 13 Oct. 2026

Definition of deficit

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shortfalls

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“Shortfall.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shortfall. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of shortfall

noun

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