What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
incompleteness
Example
The report was rejected due to its incompleteness. [incompleteness: noun]
Example
The project remains in a state of incompleteness until all the necessary parts are assembled. [incompleteness: noun]
shortcoming
Example
One of his major shortcomings is his lack of attention to detail. [shortcoming: noun]
Example
The company's shortcoming in customer service led to a decline in sales. [shortcoming: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shortcoming is more commonly used than incompleteness in everyday language. Shortcoming is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while incompleteness is less common and is typically used to describe physical objects or tasks.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between incompleteness and shortcoming?
Both incompleteness and shortcoming are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.