shortfall
noun
short·fall
ˈshȯrt-ˌfȯl 
: a failure to come up to expectation or need
a budget shortfall
also
: the amount of such failure
a $2 million shortfall
Examples of shortfall in a Sentence
a shortfall in milk production
Recent Examples on the Web
Fransein’s experiences as chief judge led her to identify training and education as important factors in addressing shortfalls in legal representation.
—
Raynee Howell, Oklahoma Watch, 9 Feb. 2026
The average monthly budget shortfall skyrocketed to $904 a month in 2025 — up from $439 in 2020.
—Susan Tompor, USA Today, 8 Feb. 2026
Because the state is facing a $31 billion shortfall over the next decade as gas tax revenues decline.
—Sal Rodriguez, Oc Register, 8 Feb. 2026
The shortfall reflects a dramatic decline in ridership since the pandemic.
—Da Lin, CBS News, 7 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for shortfall
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Raynee Howell, Oklahoma Watch, 9 Feb. 2026
The average monthly budget shortfall skyrocketed to $904 a month in 2025 — up from $439 in 2020.
—Susan Tompor, USA Today, 8 Feb. 2026
Because the state is facing a $31 billion shortfall over the next decade as gas tax revenues decline.
—Sal Rodriguez, Oc Register, 8 Feb. 2026
The shortfall reflects a dramatic decline in ridership since the pandemic.
—Da Lin, CBS News, 7 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for shortfall
Cite this Entry
“Shortfall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shortfall. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
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