short of

phrase3

1. •
   Except; but; without resorting to; up to the point of.

   • He tried everything short of lending her the money himself.
   • Short of a miracle, nothing/little short of kneeling before your boss will do.
2. •
   Less than.

   • An Olympic athlete cannot perform at any level short of world-class.
3. •
   Insufficiently equipped with.

   • He's a nice person, but a bit short of brains.