Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to leave a lot to be desired
idiom
/tuː liːv ə lɒt tə bi dɪˈzaɪəd/

Definition
To be lacking in some way; to not meet expectations or standards.

Examples
- The service at the restaurant left a lot to be desired; we waited an hour for our food.
- His performance in the play was good, but the script left a lot to be desired.
- While the hotel had a stunning view, the cleanliness left a lot to be desired.

Meaning
This phrase indicates that something is not as good as it could be or that it has shortcomings.

Synonyms
- wanting
- lacking
- deficient
- inferior