Words / C1

di-FISHUNS-ee/dɪˈfɪʃnsi/

A deficiency is a lack of something needed: iron deficiency, a deficiency in the argument. Lack is everyday; deficit (already in the dictionary) is often money or a shortfall in accounts. Deficient is the adjective. Shortage can be temporary supply. Do not use deficiency for a mere preference (“a deficiency of jazz”).

Meaning

A lack of something needed, especially a nutrient, skill, or quality.

Examples

• “Iron deficiency left her exhausted.”
• “Vitamin D deficiency is common in winter at this latitude.”
• “The report found a deficiency in record-keeping, not in goodwill.”

Good to know

A lack of something needed. Everyday: lack. Money/accounts cousin: deficit. Adjective: deficient. Not a missing hobby.

Near in meaning

lack

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