Flaw vs. Failing — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 5, 2024
A flaw refers to a minor defect or imperfection in something, often inherent, while a failing is a weakness or fault, typically in a person's character or behavior.
Difference Between Flaw and Failing
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A flaw is generally considered a small defect or imperfection that can affect both inanimate objects and personal traits. It might not significantly impact the overall functionality or integrity but marks a deviation from perfection. On the other hand, a failing is specifically associated with a weakness or shortcoming, usually within a person’s character or behavior, indicating a more significant impact on their actions or effectiveness.
In terms of scope, flaws can be inherent or arise from the manufacturing process, affecting objects, systems, or even ideas, making them less than ideal. Failings, however, are exclusively human attributes, referring to moral, ethical, or skill-related deficiencies that can lead to mistakes or inadequacies in personal conduct or performance.
The perception of flaws is often subjective, based on individual or societal standards of what is considered perfect or acceptable. In contrast, failings are more universally acknowledged as aspects needing improvement or correction, especially if they hinder personal growth or social harmony.
While flaws can sometimes be addressed or corrected with minor adjustments or accepted as part of the uniqueness of an item or individual, failings often require a conscious effort to overcome or mitigate, involving personal development, education, or behavioral changes.
Recognizing a flaw is typically a step towards improvement or innovation, as it can prompt creative solutions or enhancements. Conversely, acknowledging a failing is crucial for personal growth and ethical development, encouraging individuals to strive for betterment in character or competence.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A minor defect or imperfection
A weakness or fault, particularly in character
Scope
Can apply to objects, systems, ideas
Primarily associated with human attributes
Impact
Often minor, may not significantly affect functionality
Indicates significant impact on actions or effectiveness
Subjectivity
Perception can be subjective
More universally recognized as needing improvement
Correction
Can sometimes be corrected or embraced
Requires conscious effort to overcome
Purpose in Identification
Often leads to improvement or innovation
Crucial for personal growth and ethical development
Compare with Definitions
Flaw
An imperfection in a design or plan.
The flaw in the experiment’s design led to inconclusive results.
Failing
A fault that leads to mistakes or inadequacy.
His failings as a leader became apparent during the crisis.
Flaw
A slight fault that detracts from perfection.
The sculpture had a minor flaw on its base, barely noticeable to the observer.
Failing
An area of personal weakness needing improvement.
She worked hard to overcome her failings in communication.
Flaw
A characteristic that mars perfection.
His stubbornness was a flaw in his otherwise amicable personality.
Failing
A moral or ethical deficiency.
His greatest failing was his inability to admit his mistakes.
Flaw
A vulnerability in systems or software.
Cybersecurity experts identified a flaw in the software, exposing data to risk.
Failing
A weakness in character or behavior.
His inability to delegate was a failing that affected his team’s performance.
Flaw
A defect in physical objects or materials.
A flaw in the diamond reduced its value significantly.
Failing
A shortcoming or deficiency.
For all her brilliance, her lack of patience was a notable failing.
Flaw
An imperfection, often concealed, that impairs soundness
A flaw in the crystal that caused it to shatter.
Failing
The act of a person or thing that fails; a failure.
Flaw
A defect or shortcoming in something intangible
The two leaders share the flaw of arrogance.
Failing
A minor fault.
Flaw
A quick, intense burst, especially of wind, rain, or snow.
Failing
Undergoing failure
Failing health.
Failing kidneys.
A failing business.
Flaw
To cause a flaw in; make defective
An argument that was flawed by specious reasoning.
Failing
In the absence of; without
Failing new evidence, the case will surely be lost.
Flaw
(obsolete) A flake, fragment, or shiver.
Failing
Present participle of fail
Flaw
(obsolete) A thin cake, as of ice.
Failing
Weakness; defect
His worst failing is his temper.
Flaw
A crack or breach, a gap or fissure; a defect of continuity or cohesion.
There is a flaw in that knife.
That vase has a flaw.
Failing
If what follows is not possible; without.
A large proportion of the females employed in other firms are said to have signified their intention of going on strike, failing a settlement.
Flaw
A defect, fault, or imperfection, especially one that is hidden.
Failing
A failing short; a becoming deficient; failure; deficiency; imperfection; weakness; lapse; fault; infirmity; as, a mental failing.
And ever in her mind she cast aboutFor that unnoticed failing in herself.
Flaw
(in particular) An inclusion, stain, or other defect of a diamond or other gemstone.
Failing
The act of becoming insolvent of bankrupt.
Flaw
(legal) A defect or error in a contract or other document which may make the document invalid or ineffective.
A flaw in a will, in a deed, or in a statute
Failing
A flaw or weak point;
He was quick to point out his wife's failings
Flaw
A sudden burst or gust of wind of short duration; windflaw.
Failing
Failure to reach a minimum required performance;
His failing the course led to his disqualification
Flaw
A storm of short duration.
Failing
Unable to meet financial obligations;
A failing business venture
Flaw
A sudden burst of noise and disorder
Failing
Below acceptable in performance;
Received failing grades
Flaw
(transitive) To add a flaw to, to make imperfect or defective.
Flaw
(intransitive) To become imperfect or defective; to crack or break.
Flaw
A crack or breach; a gap or fissure; a defect of continuity or cohesion; as, a flaw in a knife or a vase.
This heartShall break into a hundered thousand flaws.
Flaw
A defect; a fault; as, a flaw in reputation; a flaw in a will, in a deed, or in a statute.
Has not this also its flaws and its dark side?
Flaw
A sudden burst of noise and disorder; a tumult; uproar; a quarrel.
And deluges of armies from the townCame pouring in; I heard the mighty flaw.
Flaw
A sudden burst or gust of wind of short duration.
Snow, and hail, and stormy gust and flaw.
Like flaws in summer laying lusty corn.
Flaw
To crack; to make flaws in.
The brazen caldrons with the frosts are flawed.
Flaw
To break; to violate; to make of no effect.
France hath flawed the league.
Flaw
An imperfection in a device or machine;
If there are any defects you should send it back to the manufacturer
Flaw
Defect or weakness in a person's character;
He had his flaws, but he was great nonetheless
Flaw
Add a flaw or blemish to; make imperfect or defective
Common Curiosities
Can a failing be corrected?
Yes, with conscious effort, education, and personal development, failings can often be corrected or mitigated.
How do failings affect personal relationships?
Failings, especially in character or behavior, can strain relationships, necessitating awareness and effort to address them.
What is considered a flaw in a person?
A minor defect or imperfection in one’s characteristics, often not significantly impacting their overall persona.
Can an object have a failing?
The term "failing" is typically reserved for human attributes, while objects are described as having flaws.
How can identifying a flaw be beneficial?
Identifying a flaw can lead to corrective actions, innovations, or acceptance, enhancing the value or functionality of the flawed item or trait.
Can a flaw become a failing?
If a minor defect or imperfection significantly impacts behavior or effectiveness, it might be considered a failing.
What’s the first step in overcoming a failing?
Acknowledgment of the failing is the crucial first step, followed by a commitment to personal growth and development.
How do flaws affect product valuation?
Depending on their nature and severity, flaws can decrease a product’s value, but minor flaws might not significantly impact it.
How do societies perceive flaws and failings?
Societal perceptions vary, but generally, flaws are seen as minor and possibly endearing, while failings are viewed more critically.
Is a flaw always negative?
Not necessarily; some flaws can add uniqueness or drive improvements, depending on the context.
Are flaws and failings permanent?
While some may be more challenging to address, both flaws and failings can often be improved upon with effort and intention.
Is a failing always related to moral or ethical deficiencies?
Not always; it can also refer to skill-related or behavioral weaknesses that do not necessarily involve ethical considerations.
Can professional help address failings?
Yes, counseling, coaching, or mentoring can provide valuable support in overcoming personal failings.
Does everyone have flaws and failings?
Yes, it’s part of being human; everyone has areas of imperfection and opportunities for growth.
Why is it important to recognize both flaws and failings?
Recognizing them is essential for self-improvement, innovation, and ethical development, leading to better outcomes personally and professionally.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
