Flaw
A defect or imperfection; a fault or shortcoming that makes something less than perfect.
nounFlaw
A defect or imperfection; a fault or shortcoming that makes something less than perfect.
nounImagine This
Picture a pristine porcelain vase with a hairline crack running along its glaze. The crack is barely visible at first, but grows more noticeable as light hits it, reminding you of the vase's flaw.
Sounds Like
rhymes with 'claw' (pronounced /flɔː/).
Looks Like
A visible crack or blemish on an object; metaphorically, a fault in a plan or argument.
Remember This
Flaw refers to an imperfection in objects, plans, or arguments. It can also describe a character flaw when discussing people, but the word emphasizes imperfections rather than moral judgments.
Other Forms
Connect With
defect, blemish, imperfection, fault, shortcoming, weakness
Note
Common mistakes: use 'fault' or 'defect' in place of 'flaw' when the nuance is important. 'Flaw' often implies an intrinsic imperfection that may impact value or function; 'fault' can be more moral or mechanical in some contexts. 'Flawless' means without any flaws.