short of

preposition

: other than
especially : of a lesser degree than
had few options short of replacing the motor

Examples of short of in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The European Union has set a goal for most large ports to require large ships (including cruise liners) to plug in to shore power by 2030, although a recent study suggests that many ports may fall short of the deadline. Miami Herald, 31 Dec. 2025 But Clooney feels that CBS has fallen short of its mission. Brent Lang, Variety, 30 Dec. 2025 But after completing the police academy, Wilmore fell short of passing the state exam this month by one point. Jericka Duncan, CBS News, 30 Dec. 2025 At the end, the Bears came up a couple of yards short of a final score. Cam Inman, Mercury News, 29 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for short of

Word History

First Known Use

1560, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of short of was in 1560

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Cite this Entry

“Short of.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/short%20of. Accessed 1 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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