noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', na-adjective, noun
a little too short; slightly short
Describes physical length that falls just short of what is needed or expected, often with a nuance of disappointment.
このズボンは寸足らずで、くるぶしが見えてしまう。
These pants are a little too short, and my ankles show.
寸足らずのカーテンでは窓枠が隠れない。
Curtains that are slightly too short won't cover the window frame.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', na-adjective, noun
slightly inferior; a bit worse
Used figuratively for quality, ability, or performance that is just a notch below expectations or standards.
彼の提案は寸足らずで、説得力に欠ける。
His proposal is slightly inferior and lacks persuasiveness.
この翻訳は寸足らずな部分がある。
This translation has some parts that are a bit lacking.